Monday, January 12, 2026- Venezuela’s much-publicized pledge to free a “significant number” of prisoners has entered its third day with painfully slow progress, leaving families anxiously gathered outside prisons across the country.
Despite official announcements and isolated scenes of reunion, authorities have released only a small number of detainees so far. Human rights groups report that fewer than 20 political prisoners have been freed while more than 800 remain in detention, exposing a widening gap between government promises and actual outcomes.
Officials have framed the releases as a goodwill gesture amid mounting domestic and international pressure. Some of those freed include activists and opposition figures, though many releases reportedly come with restrictions rather than full legal freedom.
Meanwhile, families of detained critics, journalists, soldiers, and political opponents continue to wait with no clear information, fueling anger and distrust toward the process.
The political stakes remain urgent. The releases follow major leadership upheavals and sensitive negotiations with the United States, with the government portraying the move as progress toward de-escalation.
Critics argue the slow pace reflects political calculation rather than meaningful reform. With hundreds still imprisoned and no transparent timeline in place, Venezuela’s justice crisis remains unresolved and under intense international scrutiny.
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