Venezuelan Families Demand Freedom for Political Prisoners Through Hunger Strike

Families of Venezuelan political prisoners have initiated a hunger strike to demand the release of their loved ones. This action coincides with ongoing discussions about an amnesty law for dissidents imprisoned under President Nicolas Maduro's regime.

Relatives of Venezuelan prisoners began a hunger strike on Saturday, demanding the release of their loved ones. This comes as politicians in Venezuela discuss an amnesty law for dissidents jailed under President Nicolas Maduro's regime. The Committee for the Freedom of Political Prisoners announced on Instagram that 10 individuals are participating in the hunger strike until all 33 political prisoners at Zona 7 prison are freed.

Earlier that day, 17 prisoners were released from Zona 7 in Caracas, reuniting emotionally with their families. Since January 8, relatives of those still detained have been camping outside the facility. This follows a government announcement promising significant prisoner releases to promote national reconciliation after a U.S. raid captured Maduro and his wife.

Pressure on Venezuelan Government

Despite recent releases from other prisons, Zona 7 has seen few liberations. Yessy Orozco, whose father was arrested in November, urged National Assembly president Jorge Rodriguez to fulfill his promise to release all political prisoners. The Venezuelan government faces pressure from Washington to implement political reforms while the Trump administration eases sanctions on its oil industry.

The National Assembly, still dominated by the ruling party, debated a measure on Thursday that could free hundreds of opposition members and activists detained for political reasons. Although parts of the measure were approved, the session was suspended to address unresolved issues, such as granting amnesty to those who fled the country to avoid detention.

Calls for Democratic Transition

Exiled opposition leader Maria Corina Machado addressed policy analysts at the Munich Security Conference via video conference. She emphasized her commitment to pushing for new elections as part of a democratic transition in Venezuela. "A transition to democracy will be orderly, it will be peaceful," Machado stated, highlighting benefits for both Venezuela and the region.

Machado did not specify when elections should occur, citing dependence on political conditions. U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have also advocated for new elections but have not provided a timeline. Machado dismissed concerns about potential chaos if the current government is replaced, asserting that Venezuelan civil society is united and supported by most armed forces.

The debate over amnesty is set to continue next week in Venezuela's National Assembly. This discussion marks a significant shift in a country where authorities have long denied having political prisoners. Lawmakers are working through contentious points before finalizing any decisions regarding amnesty and potential releases.

With inputs from PTI