Venezuela political prisoner releases face transparency concerns

Discrepancies have emerged regarding the number of political prisoners released in Venezuela following government announcements. While the administration of Delcy Rodríguez claimed 1,046 excarcerations, independent organizations report significantly lower figures. The Plataforma Unitaria Democrática (PUD) has verified 105 releases, whereas Foro Penal has confirmed 81.

Human rights organizations, including Provea, have criticized the lack of transparency in the process. They report that the government has failed to provide official lists, names, or specific timeframes for these releases, creating uncertainty for families. Provea has called for the creation of a digital portal managed by the Ministry of Penitentiary Service to provide clear information on the status of those granted alternative measures.

Despite these recent releases, activists warn that hundreds of political prisoners remain in custody. The PUD estimates that over 455 individuals are still detained, noting that the current number of prisoners remains higher than levels recorded prior to the July 2024 elections. Many of the recent excarcerations involve restrictive measures rather than full liberty, and concerns regarding due process and arbitrary detention persist.