Venezuela has seen the release of more than 100 political prisoners on January 25, 2026, under interim president Delcy Rodríguez, who assumed office on January 5 following the capture of leftist leader Nicolás Maduro by US special forces. The non-governmental organization Foro Penal confirmed 104 releases, noting that the figure may rise as officials continue to verify the identities of detainees nationwide.
Rodríguez has faced mounting pressure from Washington to act on the hundreds of Maduro opponents still imprisoned. Although Venezuelan authorities claim that 626 detainees have been freed since December 2025, human rights organizations and opposition groups argue that only about half of these releases have been verified. Families of prisoners have been camping outside prisons, eagerly awaiting the freedom of their loved ones.
Speaking to oil workers in Anzoátegui state, Rodríguez emphasized Venezuelan sovereignty, declaring: “Enough orders from Washington on politicians in Venezuela. Let Venezuelan politics resolve our differences and internal conflicts. Enough of foreign powers. It has cost this republic dearly to face the consequences of fascism and extremism in our country.”
While the releases mark a significant step toward easing political tensions, the slow pace has drawn criticism from both domestic and international observers. Human rights groups continue to call for greater transparency and faster action to ensure that all political prisoners are freed without further delay.
The ongoing process highlights the delicate balance Rodríguez must strike between domestic expectations, international pressure, and the need to restore stability to Venezuela’s deeply divided political landscape.
source : le Monde
