ULA professor demands release of political prisoners from Minister

Rafael Cuevas, a professor at the University of Los Andes (ULA), interrupted a formal academic ceremony at the university's Aula Magna to demand the release of political prisoners in Venezuela. The protest occurred during the swearing-in of elected faculty representatives for the 2026-2029 period, in the presence of the Minister of University Education, Ana María Sanjuán.

During the interruption, Cuevas approached the presidium wearing a black shirt with the slogan “Liberen a todos los presos políticos” (Release all political prisoners). He addressed Minister Sanjuán directly, requesting that she convey his message to the government authorities. Cuevas emphasized the university's role in defending freedom and criticized the administration the minister represents.

The protest follows reports from Foro Penal, which recorded 322 political prisoners in Venezuela as of October 26, 2026. This figure includes 182 civilians and 140 military personnel, with 171 individuals remaining without a conviction.