Sat Feb 07 06:21:39 UTC 2026: ### Venezuela’s National Assembly Promises Speedy Release of Political Prisoners Amidst U.S. Overthrow Fallout
The Story:
Following the U.S. overthrow of Nicolas Maduro a month prior, Venezuela’s National Assembly, led by Jorge Rodriguez, is promising the speedy release of political prisoners. Rodriguez, a former member of Maduro’s inner circle and brother of interim President Delcy Rodriguez, announced a February 13, 2026, deadline for the release of all remaining political prisoners, estimated by rights groups to be around 700. This commitment comes as the National Assembly is considering an amnesty bill intended to “repair all the mistakes” of Chavismo, the socialist doctrine of Hugo Chavez and Maduro. However, the opposition coalition has denounced “serious omissions” in the amnesty measures, stating that the draft law excludes large groups of prisoners, lacks mechanisms for victim reparation, and does not guarantee the safe return of exiles.
Key Points:
- Jorge Rodriguez, President of the National Assembly, pledged the release of political prisoners by February 13, 2026.
- The announcement followed an initial backing by the National Assembly for a draft amnesty law.
- The opposition coalition, the Democratic Unitary Platform, criticized the amnesty measures for “serious omissions.”
- The amnesty bill is being pushed by acting President Delcy Rodriguez as a milestone on the path to reconciliation after the U.S. overthrow of Maduro.
- Rights groups estimate around 700 political prisoners remain in Venezuela.
Key Takeaways:
- The promise of prisoner release and amnesty legislation reflects an attempt by the post-Maduro government to stabilize the political landscape.
- The opposition’s criticism highlights the challenges of achieving genuine reconciliation and addressing the legacy of the socialist rule.
- The U.S. overthrow of Maduro has created a power vacuum and a need for internal reforms within Venezuela.
First Piper 