Venezuelan Political Prisoners: A Fragile Step Towards Freedom, But Challenges Remain
Caracas, Venezuela – A glimmer of hope emerged in the ongoing struggle for political freedom in Venezuela this Saturday, February 14, 2026, with the release of 17 political prisoners from the Policía Nacional Bolivariana (PNB) Zona 7 facility in Boleíta. The releases, confirmed by the Committee for the Freedom of Political Prisoners (ClippVe) and authorities, follow weeks of mounting pressure and a hunger strike initiated by those still detained.
The Recent Releases and Notable Cases
Among those freed are prominent figures such as José Elías Torres, President of the CTV (Central Trabalista de Venezuela), Marilyn Gil, Jean Carlos Arroyo, Morelba Delgado, Jorge Párraga, José Luis Subero Reyes, Mariela Salas, Gabriel Sánchez, and Nassar Yunis. ClippVe emphasized the wrongful imprisonment of José Elías Torres, a labor leader detained under disputed circumstances in November 2025.
The releases come after detainees began a hunger strike protesting delays in promised liberations. The timing suggests a response to this escalating pressure, though authorities have not disclosed the specific reasons for the decision.
A History of Detention and Growing Concerns
The situation highlights a long-standing issue of political imprisonment in Venezuela. ClippVe has documented 22 prison deaths since 2014, including the recent death of Edison José Torres Fernández, who died in PNB custody on January 10, 2026, after being arrested for criticizing government officials online. The cause of his death remains undisclosed.
The PNB Zona 7 facility has become a focal point of concern, with families camping outside the facility for over a month, awaiting news of their loved ones. A significant police presence around the facility was reported on January 21, 2026, raising concerns about potential intimidation of those peacefully protesting for the release of prisoners.
The Stalled Amnesty Law and Continued Protests
Despite the recent releases, the broader issue of political prisoners remains unresolved. Even as President of the National Assembly, Jorge Rodríguez, announced the release of 17 individuals under the framework of an amnesty law, the law’s implementation has stalled due to disagreements over its application. Specifically, a requirement for beneficiaries to request amnesty through the courts has created tension.
Frustration over the leisurely pace of releases has led to further action. Familiares de los detenidos have joined the hunger strike, demanding the complete freedom of all those currently imprisoned at Zona 7. ClippVe reports that, as of February 14, 2026, more than 50 political prisoners remain in the facility, despite earlier promises of wider releases.
The Role of International Pressure and Domestic Resistance
The situation underscores the importance of both international scrutiny and sustained domestic resistance. The continued advocacy of organizations like ClippVe, combined with the families’ unwavering vigil, appears to be playing a crucial role in securing these incremental gains. The hunger strikes, while a desperate measure, have demonstrably increased pressure on the government.
FAQ
Q: How many political prisoners are currently held in Venezuela?
A: Approximately 803 people remain jailed for political reasons, according to Foro Penal.
Q: What is the PNB Zona 7 facility?
A: It is a detention center operated by the Policía Nacional Bolivariana in Boleíta, Caracas, and has become a focal point for the detention of political prisoners.
Q: What is the status of the amnesty law?
A: The adoption of the law has been postponed due to disagreements over its implementation, specifically regarding the requirement for prisoners to apply for amnesty through the courts.
Q: What is ClippVe?
A: It stands for the Committee for the Freedom of Political Prisoners in Venezuela, an organization that monitors and advocates for the rights of political prisoners.
Did you know? The recent releases occurred just hours after the detained prisoners declared a hunger strike, highlighting the impact of their protest.
Pro Tip: Follow ClippVe (@clippve) on social media for the latest updates on the situation.
Further updates on this developing story will be provided as they become available. The situation remains fluid, and the future of political prisoners in Venezuela remains uncertain.
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