Venezuelan rights activist Javier Tarazona has been released from detention, according to legal rights group Foro Penal. His release is part of an ongoing series of prisoner releases that began on January 8, though families of those detained report the process has been slow.
Amnesty Proposal and Prison Reform
Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodriguez announced a proposed “amnesty law” on Friday that could affect hundreds of prisoners. The announcement also included plans to convert the Helicoide detention center in Caracas – long criticized by rights groups for alleged abuse – into a center for sport and social services.
Foro Penal has verified the release of over 300 political prisoners since January 8, and reported that several others were released alongside Tarazona from the Helicoide. However, the group estimates that more than 700 political prisoners remain jailed, including those whose families, fearing reprisal, had previously not reported their detentions.
Disputed Numbers and Allegations of Abuse
Government officials claim to have released over 600 prisoners, but have not provided a clear timeline or a list of those released. They maintain that those imprisoned have committed crimes and deny holding political prisoners. Families and advocates are calling for the complete dismissal of charges against those considered political prisoners, who have often been accused of crimes like terrorism and treason.
Among those still detained are opposition politician Juan Pablo Guanipa, lawyer Perkins Rocha, and Voluntad Popular party leader Freddy Superlano. Rafael Tudares, the son-in-law of former presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, was among those recently released after being sentenced to 30 years on terrorism charges his family disputes.
The releases follow the U.S. capture and arraignment of President Nicolas Maduro on narcoterrorism charges, allegations he denies. A 2022 United Nations report alleged torture of detainees at the Helicoide, a claim the government rejected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of the proposed amnesty law?
Venezuela’s interim president Delcy Rodriguez announced a proposed “amnesty law” for hundreds of prisoners on Friday, but details regarding its implementation remain unclear.
Who is Javier Tarazona?
Javier Tarazona is the director of FundaRedes, an organization that tracks alleged abuses by Colombian armed groups and the Venezuelan military along the countries’ border. He was arrested in July 2021.
How long was Javier Tarazona detained?
Javier Tarazona was detained for 1,675 days, or four years and seven months, before his release.
As the proposed amnesty law moves forward, will it lead to a broader release of political prisoners and a shift in Venezuela’s approach to dissent?
