Venezuela’s National Assembly approves a first vote on an amnesty law to free jailed protesters and allow exiles to return, covering crimes from 1999 onward.
CARACAS: Venezuela’s National Assembly has approved an amnesty bill in a first vote that could free hundreds jailed for political protests and allow exiled opposition figures to return.
The bill, which passed unanimously in the socialist party-controlled assembly, requires a second vote to become law.
A draft seen by Reuters states the law would grant immediate clemency to those detained for participating in protests or criticising public figures.
READ MORE: Venezuelans celebrate new era as amnesty declared
It would also return seized assets and cancel Interpol red notices, facilitating the safe return of citizens abroad.
Assembly head Jorge Rodriguez described the law as a difficult but necessary step for national reconciliation.
“The path of this law is going to be full of obstacles, full of bitter moments … we’re not only going to have to swallow hard … but also swallow frogs,” he said.
“We ask for forgiveness and we also have to forgive.”
The amnesty would cover crimes committed between 1 January 1999 and the law’s enactment, applying immediately to those who acted peacefully or have health concerns.
It specifically excludes amnesty for convictions related to human rights violations, war crimes, murder, corruption or drug trafficking.
Covered offences include instigation of illegal activity, rebellion, treason and property damage if committed during political protests.
This includes mass protests in 2007, 2014, 2017, 2019 and 2024, the latest of which followed a contested election the opposition claims to have won.
The bill also covers those accused of defamation for criticising authorities and would revoke public office bans and sanctions against media outlets.
Interim President Rodriguez announced the law last week, following US pressure after the capture and deposition of President Nicolas Maduro last month.
The government has been complying with US demands on oil and has already been releasing people classified as political prisoners.
Rights group Foro Penal says 383 political prisoners have been freed since a new series of releases began on 8 January.
The group states more than 680 remain jailed, including cases newly reported by fearful families.
Government officials claim nearly 900 releases but have not provided a clear timeline, appearing to include those freed in previous years.
The government denies holding political prisoners, insisting those jailed have committed crimes.
Long-time amnesty advocate and Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado has several close allies imprisoned, including politician Juan Pablo Guanipa. – Reuters
