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Venezuela Initiates Prisoner Releases Under New Amnesty Law

KVIA•Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 12:48 AM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

Following the approval of a new Amnesty Law by Venezuela's National Assembly, the first releases of political prisoners have begun, with two professors, Luis Alberto Linares Sánchez and Milton José Hidalgo Mendoza, being freed. The law aims to benefit individuals detained for political-related offenses over the past two decades, with over 1,500 requests already submitted. Officials anticipate that hundreds more will be released shortly. This legislation, announced on January 30, is seen as a response to political tensions and international pressure, particularly from the United States, for the release of political detainees. However, the law faces criticism for potentially excluding many individuals, including military personnel and opposition leaders like María Corina Machado, who may not qualify for amnesty due to their political affiliations.

Key Details: • First two releases confirmed on Saturday, with hundreds more expected soon. • More than 1,500 amnesty requests have been submitted to date. • Amnesty Law was approved on January 30, 2026, as a response to political pressures. • Critics highlight potential exclusions for military personnel and certain political figures.

politics human-rights venezuela prisoners amnesty

People & Organizations

VenezuelaForo PenalMaría Corina MachadoDelcy RodríguezJorge RodríguezNational Assembly of VenezuelaLuis Alberto Linares SánchezMilton José Hidalgo MendozaBarinas

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