In Venezuela, Amnesty for Political Prisoners Stokes Hope and Frustration

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Anatoly KurmanaevJanuary 12, 2026 at 07:08 PM

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long article 4 min

Following the ousting of Nicolás Maduro and the installation of Delcy Rodríguez as interim leader in Venezuela, there are hints of political amnesty. Rodríguez's government announced the release of an "important number" of political prisoners, further fueled by President Trump's statement about a large-scale release. However, the actual number of prisoners released has been significantly lower than expected. As of Monday, the government claimed 116 releases, while rights groups have only confirmed 41 since Maduro's removal. The slow pace has led to uncertainty regarding Rodríguez's intentions and her control over security agencies, leaving approximately 800 political prisoners still detained. The situation has created a mix of hope and frustration among Venezuelans.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Jorge Rodríguez 40% Caracas ×250% Maracaibo ×250% United States ×260% Donald Trump ×260% Ramón Guanipa Linares ×470% Juan Pablo Guanipa ×370% Delcy Rodríguez ×370% Nicolás Maduro (Maduro) ×380% Venezuela ×790%

Keywords

political prisoners 100% venezuela 90% political amnesty 80% liberation 70% delcy rodríguez 60% nicolás maduro 60% opposition politician 50% president trump 50% rights groups 40%