Venezuelan Government Begins Releasing Political Prisoners in a Move for Goodwill

Sat Jan 10 2026 01:02:55 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a surprising gesture, the Venezuelan government initiates the release of political prisoners, a step applauded by human rights organizations yet approached with caution due to ongoing repression.

The Venezuelan government is releasing detainees classified as political prisoners, including human rights activist Rocío San Miguel. This development follows international pressure and scrutiny post-capture of President Nicolás Maduro for drug trafficking. The government's announcement, made by Jorge Rodríguez of the National Assembly, emphasizes a commitment to 'national unity and peaceful coexistence,' though many remain skeptical, citing the long history of detentions under the regime. This release has been cautiously welcomed by human rights groups, highlighting the broader context of political repression in the country as the regime seeks to improve its international standing.

The Venezuelan government has begun releasing detainees considered political prisoners by human rights groups, in what officials described as a goodwill gesture.

Spain's foreign ministry said five of its nationals, including one dual national, had been released. Among them is thought to be rights activist Rocío San Miguel.

The move comes after the US seized Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro in a lightning raid on the capital, Caracas, on Saturday, to face drug trafficking charges in New York.

The release of political prisoners in Venezuela has been a long-held US demand, especially during moments of heightened repression around elections or protests.

Jorge Rodríguez, the head of Venezuela's National Assembly and the brother of its interim president Delcy Rodríguez, announced on state television that 'a significant number' would be released immediately, without specifying the number or identity of prisoners being freed.

Hundreds of political prisoners are detained in Venezuelan prisons, with only a handful thought to have been released so far.

Jorge Rodríguez stated that the interim government was releasing them in the interest of 'national unity and peaceful coexistence.'

The release of San Miguel, who is an expert in security, defence, and Venezuela's military, was the first freed prisoner to be confirmed. She was arrested at Maiquetia airport, near Caracas, in February 2024, with allegations of involvement in a plot to kill the then-president, which resulted in charges of treason, conspiracy, and terrorism.

Venezuelan human rights organisations - some of which have members or their founders in jail - welcomed the news with caution.

Despite being a key lieutenant of Maduro, Delcy Rodríguez's interim administration has appeared willing to co-operate with the US since it seized its leader and made sweeping declarations about the South American nation's future.

About 50 to 80 prisoners are believed to be held at the notorious El Helicoide prison, which US President Donald Trump announced would be closed following Maduro's capture. The prison has gained notoriety for detaining alleged political opponents, with human rights groups reporting torture including beatings and electrocution.

Opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado has repeatedly demanded releases and expressed a desire to address the US president. Machado, who has several close allies imprisoned, has claimed the Venezuelan government used detentions to suppress dissent.

In recent years, especially following the disputed 2024 election, allegations against the government have surged, with numerous activists, journalists, and political foes detained under harsh conditions.