Post by : Meena Ariff

Venezuela’s government announced on Monday that 116 prisoners have been released so far as part of a recent prisoner release process. However, rights groups report lower numbers, with some saying only 49 to 65 prisoners have been freed. Families of the detainees are anxiously waiting outside prisons in Caracas, some even spending nights there, hoping to see their loved ones released.

The government stated that those freed were involved in acts linked to disrupting the country’s constitutional order. Despite the official announcement, human rights organizations have reported delays in the release process, causing frustration among families who are desperate for news and proof of life.

One family member, Mariana Gonzalez de Tudares, expressed her pain, saying she has no contact with her husband Rafael Tudares, who was detained over a year ago. She pleaded for proof of life, emphasizing the long wait without any news.

This release wave follows recent political upheaval in Venezuela after the capture of President Nicolas Maduro by US authorities on drug charges. The release of political prisoners has been a longstanding demand from human rights groups and opposition leaders, including Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Corina Machado, who has actively called for their freedom.

Machado recently met with Pope Leo at the Vatican, seeking his support to help those still detained. The government has not provided a total number of planned releases, but opposition and advocacy groups estimate that around 800 people were held as political prisoners earlier this year. The government denies these claims, stating no one is held for political reasons.

The situation remains tense as families continue to wait and advocate for the safe return of their loved ones.

#world news #Global News