Venezuela Releases 99 Prisoners After Disputed Presidential Election
The Venezuelan government confirmed the release of 99 prisoners on Thursday, December 21, 2023, following the contentious July 28, 2024, presidential election that saw Nicolás Maduro secure re-election amid widespread allegations of fraud. The releases represent a potential, albeit cautious, step toward de-escalation in a deeply polarized nation.
The Ministry for the Penitentiary Service stated the individuals had been detained for alleged participation in “acts of violence and incitement to hatred” following the election, when protests erupted against the results proclaimed by the electoral body. This body, critics contend, is controlled by officials aligned with Chavismo, the political ideology originating with former President Hugo Chávez.
“The National Government and the Justice system have made the decision to evaluate case by case and grant, in accordance with the law, precautionary measures, which has allowed the release of 99 citizens, as a concrete expression of the State’s commitment to peace, dialogue and justice,” a senior official stated.
The ministry further emphasized that Venezuela “guarantees to all those deprived of liberty treatment based on respect, legality and comprehensive care,” even amidst what it described as an “imperialist siege and multilateral aggressions.” These tensions are exacerbated by the U.S. military deployment in the Caribbean Sea, which Maduro’s administration views as a potential attempt to destabilize his government.
The Bolivarian Government pledged to continue working “firmly and responsibly for peace, justice and the defense of national sovereignty.” Among those released is Marggie Orozco, a doctor who was sentenced to 30 years in prison for criticizing Maduro in a WhatsApp message – a case that drew international condemnation.
Several NGOs reported on the releases coinciding with the Christmas celebration in Venezuela, prompting renewed calls for the liberation of all political prisoners. After the July 28th election, more than 2,400 people were arrested, accused of “terrorism” and “vandalism” by the Prosecutor’s Office. However, numerous NGOs and opposition parties maintain the innocence of those detained, labeling the arrests as political repression.
According to a report released last week with a cut-off date of December 15, 2023, the NGO Foro Penal currently counts 902 political prisoners in Venezuela, the majority of whom were arrested in the wake of the elections.
Despite these figures, the Maduro Executive insists the country is “free of political prisoners,” asserting that those labeled as such are imprisoned for the “commission of terrible punishable acts.” The recent releases mark a resumption of a process that was suspended in March, according to family members of the detainees. This process, which began last year, has already facilitated the release of over 2,000 individuals under precautionary measures, according to the Venezuelan Prosecutor’s Office.
. The discrepancy between the government’s claims and the reports from independent organizations highlights the ongoing challenges to transparency and due process within Venezuela’s justice system.
