Name: Venezuela begins releasing political prisoners
Uploaded: 2026-01-09T07:41:43.226Z
Duration: 1 min 48 s
Description: The move comes days after US forces abducted President Nicolas Maduro and put him in front of a US judge to face drugs charges. Rights groups estimate that some 800 political prisoners are being held in Venezuelan jails.

The move comes days after US forces abducted President Nicolas Maduro and put him in front of a US judge to face drugs charges. Rights groups estimate that some 800 political prisoners are being held in Venezuelan jails.

Caracas

Venezuela has started releasing political prisoners from facilities such as the Elicoide prison in Caracas, which is known for housing the country's intelligence service. Among those freed is Spanish-Venezuelan activist Rocio Sanmiguel, who had been detained for nearly two years over an alleged plot against former President Maduro.

The release follows the recent toppling of Maduro by US forces and was announced by the Speaker of Parliament, who stated it aims to foster national unity and peace. Relatives of prisoners have gathered outside jails in anticipation, while the country's leaders hope the move will improve their image during a period of political uncertainty.

Venezuela begins releasing political prisoners

The Elicoide prison in Venezuela's capital, Caracas. One of the country's most feared jails. And also home to Venezuela's intelligence service. Just last month a leading opposition figure died in custody here. One mother whose son has been imprisoned for two years is hoping he'll walk free. And for a new dawn for Venezuela. This will show that there is change. There is something positive. Something good. Something that will unite the country. There was no need to lock up so many innocent people and professionals. It wasn't right. Among the first to be released was Spanish-Venezuelan activist Rocio Sanmiguel, who was arrested nearly two years ago over an alleged plot to assassinate President Maduro. The decision to free political prisoners comes just days after US forces toppled Maduro. Announcing the release, the Speaker of Parliament, the brother of Interim President Dulce Rodriguez, said it was aimed at promoting national unity. Consider this a gesture by the government of Venezuela with the intention of seeking peace. We must all make contributions to ensure that our republic continues its peaceful existence. Outside Venezuelan jails, relatives wait in anticipation of being reunited with their loved ones. The country's leaders, meanwhile, will be hoping that the prisoner release polishes their image as Venezuela navigates an uncertain future. For more UN videos visit www.un.org

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