In a move that comes amid heightened tensions with the United States, the Venezuelan regime has released 99 political prisoners. This development follows the contentious presidential elections of 2024 and was confirmed on Thursday by Venezuela's Penitentiary Service, as reported by EFE.
The official statement indicated that those released had been involved in "acts of violence and incitement to hatred." The government announced that it had evaluated each individual case, leading to the release of these individuals as part of its commitment to peace, dialogue, and justice.
"The National Government and the justice system have decided to assess cases individually and grant legal measures where appropriate, allowing for the release of 99 citizens," the statement read. This is presented as a tangible expression of the state's dedication to restoring societal harmony.
Despite international pressure, the Maduro regime claims it provides all detainees with treatment grounded in respect, legality, and comprehensive care, even as it faces "imperialist siege and multifaceted aggressions."
The confirmation of these releases came on Christmas Day from several NGOs. Among them, Foro Penal reported that there are currently 902 political prisoners in Venezuela, out of over 2,400 arrested during protests following the electoral fraud.
Just two days earlier, opposition leader María Corina Machado had revealed that regime officials issued direct and systematic threats of extrajudicial execution against political prisoners in El Rodeo prison, located to the east of Caracas.
“I have received reports of threats of extrajudicial execution against political prisoners. These intimidations are crimes against humanity and severe violations of International Humanitarian Law,” Machado stated on her X account, warning that the Venezuelan state would be held accountable for any harm to the detainees.
Machado, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025 for her human rights advocacy in Latin America, argued that the prisoners are essentially hostages of the state.
Organizations like Foro Penal and Amnesty International have documented numerous cases of torture and disappearances in Venezuelan detention centers.
This situation unfolds in a backdrop of significant international tension following the launch of Operation Southern Spear, a military campaign by the United States Southern Command. Officially aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks, this operation is widely seen as a direct challenge to the Maduro regime.
The White House has issued warnings, stating it closely monitors the oppressive actions of the Chavista government and will respond to any state crimes.
"The international community cannot turn a blind eye. Lives are at risk today," Machado emphasized, urging the UN and OAS to immediately implement protection mechanisms for Venezuelan political prisoners.
Understanding Venezuela's Political Crisis
Why did Venezuela release 99 political prisoners?
The Venezuelan government released 99 political prisoners as part of an initiative to demonstrate its commitment to peace, dialogue, and justice, amidst international pressure and tensions with the United States.
Who is María Corina Machado?
María Corina Machado is an opposition leader and human rights advocate in Venezuela. She received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2025 for her efforts in defending human rights across Latin America.
What is Operation Southern Spear?
Operation Southern Spear is a military initiative by the United States Southern Command, officially targeting drug trafficking networks but also seen as a message to the Maduro regime.