Human rights groups demand full release of political prisoners in Venezuela

Amnesty International and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (CIDH) have called on the Venezuelan government to grant full freedom to political prisoners, noting that recent releases do not equate to true liberty. While approximately 80 people have been released under humanitarian measures or conditional liberty since mid-August, human rights organizations report that hundreds of individuals remain arbitrarily detained for political reasons.

The CIDH emphasized that when detentions are linked to political dissent, the state must invalidate associated legal processes and convictions rather than merely providing alternative measures. The Commission also urged the Venezuelan government to provide transparent and updated information regarding the legal status of detainees.

Furthermore, concerns have been raised regarding the lack of judicial independence. The CIDH highlighted the need for the selection of authorities for the Supreme Tribunal of Justice to be conducted through transparent, merit-based procedures. Amnesty International also reported troubling allegations of torture and forced disappearances within the El Rodeo I prison facility.