The National Assembly (Parliament) of Venezuela unanimously adopted the "Amnesty for Democratic Coexistence" law, which provides for the release of political prisoners convicted between January 1, 1999 and the entry into force of the law in 2026.
"The law on amnesty for democratic coexistence was unanimously adopted by the members of the parliament," said Jorge Rodríguez, speaker of the parliament, on Venezolana de Television after the vote.
The universal amnesty initiative was announced at the end of January 2026 by the interim president of Venezuela, Delsey Rodríguez. According to Rodríguez, the release of political prisoners should contribute to national reconciliation, peace and democratic reforms in the republic.
Prisoners convicted of serious crimes against humanity, human rights violations, premeditated murder, corruption, and drug trafficking are not eligible for amnesty.
The law will enter into force after being signed by the president and published in the Official Gazette.
