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Venezuela Parliament chief vows quick release of remaining political prisoners amid 2026 amnesty process
Following the US capture of Nicolás Maduro, acting president Delcy Rodríguez initiated the release of political prisoners starting January 8, 2026, with parliament advancing an amnesty bill by February 5, 2026, confirming over 380 releases.
Why It Matters
The releases and amnesty bill address long-standing human rights concerns, potentially easing political tensions in Venezuela after Maduro's ouster and marking a shift toward reconciliation amid international pressure.
Timeline
8 Events
National Assembly advances amnesty bill in first vote
February 5, 2026
The National Assembly unanimously passed the amnesty bill in its first vote. Foro Penal confirmed 383 releases since the announcement.[1][3]
Foro Penal confirms 250 releases; Cabello claims 808 since December 2025
January 26, 2026
Foro Penal confirmed 250 prisoners released since January 8. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said 808 were released since December 2025. Donald Trump praised the releases on Truth Social.[1]
Rodríguez announces amnesty bill and El Helicoide dismantling
January 29, 2026
Rodríguez announced an amnesty bill covering cases from 1999 and the dismantling of El Helicoide detention center.[1]
Over 100 political prisoners freed on January 25
January 25, 2026
More than 100 political prisoners were freed. Foro Penal verified 104 releases that day.[2]
Foro Penal confirms 154 releases; Rodríguez claims 626
January 23, 2026
Foro Penal confirmed 154 political prisoners released since January 8. Delcy Rodríguez announced 626 prisoners released and called for UN verification.[1]
Government announces over 100 political prisoners released
January 12, 2026
More than 100 political prisoners have been released, the Government announced.[4]
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announces political prisoner releases
January 8, 2026
The government announced the release of multiple Venezuelan and foreign political prisoners starting on January 8.[1]
US strikes Venezuela and captures Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores
January 2026
In the aftermath of the 2026 United States strikes in Venezuela and capture of Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores, the remaining government led by vice president Delcy Rodríguez as acting president announced the release of political prisoners.[1]