Venezuela has released 223 more prisoners arrested during post-election protests, totaling 956 detainees freed. Over 2,400 people were arrested and at least 28 died in protests against President Maduro’s alleged election victory. Families have been protesting for releases, while human rights groups challenge official accounts of the situation.
On Monday, Venezuelan authorities announced the release of 223 additional prisoners who were detained during protests following the disputed July elections. This recent release elevates the total number of freed protesters to 956, amidst an environment of significant civil unrest. More than 2,400 individuals were arrested in connection with these demonstrations, which erupted after President Nicolas Maduro proclaimed his victory, despite opposition claims that their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia, had actually won. The public prosecutor’s office stated that the review process for detainees continued in collaboration with criminal courts.
Families of the incarcerated have been persistently advocating for the release of their loved ones, holding vigils in the lead-up to Christmas. The release review process initiated last month has faced skepticism from human rights organizations, such as Foro Penal, regarding the official counts of those freed. Those detained immediately following Maduro’s election announcement faced severe charges, including terrorism and incitement to hatred, leading to their placement in maximum-security facilities.
The protests ignited amid the opposition’s claims of electoral fraud. They accused the electoral council of withholding official results, which would have favored their candidate. Notably, three detained individuals reportedly died while in custody, with relatives alleging that several attempted suicide due to the dire conditions.
In July, Venezuela experienced tumultuous protests following the presidential elections, which were marked by controversy. President Nicolas Maduro’s declaration of victory led to public outcry, with opposition leaders alleging electoral irregularities. The opposition, led by Maria Corina Machado, asserted that their candidate had decisively won the election, prompting mass demonstrations that resulted in widespread arrests and fatalities. The Venezuelan government’s response involved stringent measures against dissenters, including charging them with serious criminal offenses.
In summary, the release of 223 additional prisoners highlights the ongoing struggle for civil liberties in Venezuela post-election unrest. The situation reflects broader concerns regarding human rights practices in the country, with significant scrutiny placed on governmental legitimacy. The families of those detained continue to advocate for justice and transparency in a contentious political climate, underscoring the need for accountability within the Venezuelan government. The calls for action coincide with a heightened awareness of the conditions faced by those protesting electoral outcomes.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
