Venezuela Releases 87 Political Prisoners

The Venezuelan government authorized the release of 87 political prisoners on New Year's Eve, according to civil organizations tracking the situation. The releases were confirmed by groups including Justicia Encuentro, Perdón, and the Comité de Madres en Defensa de la Verdad.

Most prisoners were held at the Tocorón prison, located 90 minutes from Caracas, for participating in mass protests against Nicolás Maduro's declared victory in the 2024 presidential elections. Civil organizations have verified the release of 33 individuals so far.

The authorization occurred on the eve of the new year, marking a significant development in Venezuela's political prisoner situation. Government authorities permitted the 87 releases as part of a broader policy shift.

Civil organizations with direct ties to prisoners confirmed the authorization through their monitoring networks. These groups maintain regular contact with detainees and their families, providing them with verified information about release procedures.

The Tocorón prison facility housed the vast majority of the 87 authorized releases. Located approximately 90 minutes from the capital city of Caracas, this prison has been a central location for political detentions.

Prisoners held at Tocorón faced charges related to their participation in massive popular protests that questioned the legitimacy of the 2024 presidential election results. The protests erupted following Nicolás Maduro's declared victory in the contested election.

Multiple civil society groups are actively monitoring the release process. Justicia Encuentro and Perdón work directly with former prisoners to document cases and provide support services.

The Comité de Madres en Defensa de la Verdad also confirmed the authorization, representing families of political prisoners. These organizations have verified that 33 individuals have been released thus far from the total authorized group.

The detained individuals participated in protests that challenged the 2024 presidential election outcome. These demonstrations represented widespread opposition to Nicolás Maduro's declared victory.

The mass protests reflected deep political divisions within Venezuela following the contested election. Participants faced various charges related to their involvement in these demonstrations, leading to their incarceration at facilities including Tocorón.