Venezuela has received more than 1,550 requests under amnesty law

Venezuela has received more than 1,550 requests under amnesty law

Venezuela’s Amnesty Law Sparks Mixed Reactions Amid 1,550+ Applications

Venezuela’s National Assembly reported receiving over 1,550 amnesty requests under a newly enacted law designed to release political prisoners, with 80 individuals already freed as of February 21, 2026. The law, approved unanimously by the legislature on February 19, allows petitioners to seek court-ordered releases, though amnesty is not automatic. National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez stated that 1,557 cases are being prioritized, with hundreds of prisoners in Caracas already benefiting from the measure.

The legislation, pushed by interim President Delcy Rodríguez following the U.S.-led capture of former leader Nicolás Maduro in January, marks a shift for Venezuelan authorities, who historically denied detaining political prisoners. The law excludes individuals prosecuted for "promoting armed actions" against Venezuela's sovereignty or terrorism-related offenses, raising concerns among human rights groups. Critics, including opposition figures and organizations like Foro Penal, argue the law discriminates by omitting certain political detainees and military personnel.

While the amnesty covers 11,000 prisoners previously under house arrest or parole, its effectiveness remains contested. Relatives of detainees gathered outside facilities like Caracas' Zone 7 police station expressed cautious optimism, with some demanding accountability for alleged human rights violations. U.S. backing for the law has further complicated Venezuela's political landscape, as interim authorities seek to balance domestic pressures with international expectations.

Economically, the law's passage coincides with ongoing challenges, including a fragile financial system and humanitarian crises. Analysts note that political stability—key for investor confidence—remains elusive, as opposition leaders like María Corina Machado remain excluded from the amnesty's scope. With hundreds more releases potentially forthcoming, the law's long-term impact on Venezuela's governance and economic recovery will depend on its implementation and broader political reconciliation efforts.

(https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/more-than-1550-requests-have-been-received-under-venezuela-amnesty-law-2026-02-21/) (https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/2/21/venezuela-receives-more-than-1500-amnesty-requests-under-new-law) (https://www.khq.com/national/more-than-1-500-request-amnesty-under-new-venezuela-law/article_e11ffe5a-8d7b-55ba-bc2e-336927813509.html)