Venezuela’s National Assembly on Thursday unanimously approved a long-awaited amnesty law that could free hundreds of jailed government critics.
The measure excludes those accused of promoting foreign-backed military action, narrowing hopes for several prominent opposition figures. Among them is Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado, accused by ruling allies of seeking international intervention against former president Nicolas Maduro.
Interim leader Delcy Rodriguez signed the bill after Maduro’s capture during a US military raid on January 3.
Speaking at Miraflores presidential palace, Rodriguez said forgiveness must be both requested and granted to rebuild the nation. The law applies retroactively to 1999, covering events from the coup against Hugo Chavez to the 2024 post-election unrest.
Families of detainees say the legislation offers fragile hope that loved ones may finally return home. Critics warn authorities could use the amnesty selectively, shielding loyalists while denying relief to genuine prisoners of conscience.
Article 9 bars amnesty for anyone accused of facilitating armed actions or foreign intervention against Venezuela’s sovereignty. Rights advocates insist the measure must exclude perpetrators of serious human rights violations, regardless of political affiliation.
The NGO Foro Penal reports about 450 prisoners released since Maduro’s fall, with more than 600 still detained. Outside prisons in Caracas, relatives have held vigils and hunger strikes demanding broader releases.
Foro Penal director Gonzalo Himiob said lawmakers now face a defining test of national reconciliation. Rodriguez’s interim administration governs with the consent of US President Donald Trump, amid negotiations over Venezuela’s vast oil wealth.