Venezuela releases over 100 political prisoners, human rights group confirms

More than 100 people identified as political prisoners have been released in Venezuela, a prominent human rights organization confirmed on Sunday. The Caracas-based Foro Penal reported that at least 104 detainees were freed, with the number potentially rising as verifications continue.

Release Details and Legal Uncertainties

Alfredo Romero, head of Foro Penal, announced the releases on social media, urging the government to publish official lists. Among those freed were the organization's own lawyer, Kennedy Tejeda, and communications student Juan Francisco Alvarado. Tejeda had been missing since August 2024 after visiting a detention center in Carabobo state. The NGO cautioned that for many of the released, criminal charges have not been formally dismissed, leaving them in a state of legal limbo and unable to speak publicly.

Government Claims and Upcoming UN Engagement

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, in her first media appearance since former leader Nicolás Maduro was detained by U.S. forces earlier this month, had pledged to release detainees held under his administration. The government claims to have freed over 600 people in recent weeks, a figure contested by rights groups. Foro Penal estimates the actual number is roughly half of the official tally and reported that 777 political prisoners remained in Venezuelan jails as of January 19. Rodríguez stated she plans to speak with UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk on Monday to request UN verification of the release figures.