Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez has unveiled a significant legislative proposal that could potentially result in the mass release of hundreds of prisoners detained across the nation for political reasons. The bill, announced on Friday, specifically targets individuals including opposition leaders, journalists, and human rights activists who have been held in detention facilities due to their political activities.
Long-Awaited Concession to US-Backed Opposition
This measure represents a major concession that has been persistently demanded by the United States-backed opposition within Venezuela. It marks the latest in a series of actions taken by Rodríguez since she assumed control of the country on January 3, following the dramatic seizure of former President Nicolás Maduro during a US military operation in Caracas, the nation's capital.
Urgent Legislative Process Announced
During a televised gathering that included justices, magistrates, and other officials, Rodríguez declared that the ruling party-controlled National Assembly would address the bill with urgency. She emphasised the potential for reconciliation, stating, "May this law serve to heal the wounds left by the political confrontation." This statement underscores the government's aim to foster national healing through this legislative initiative.
Scale of Political Detentions Revealed
According to estimates from the Venezuelan-based prisoners' rights organisation Foro Penal, approximately 677 individuals are currently held in detention facilities throughout the South American country solely due to their political activities. This figure highlights the substantial impact the proposed bill could have on the nation's prison population and political landscape.
Previous Promises and Current Criticisms
Rodríguez's government had previously announced plans earlier this month to release a significant number of prisoners as a goodwill gesture. However, relatives of those detained have openly criticised the slow pace of these releases, expressing frustration over delays in seeing their loved ones freed. The new bill appears to be an effort to address these concerns through a formal legislative framework.
The announcement comes amid ongoing political turbulence in Venezuela, with the acting president navigating complex domestic and international pressures. The proposed legislation could potentially alter the country's human rights record and political dynamics, depending on its implementation and the actual number of releases it facilitates.
