On December 24, 2024, Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek Saab announced the release of 223 additional people arrested during election protests. This brings the total number of released prisoners to 956, as human rights groups express concerns over treatment in custody and deaths among detainees.
On December 24, 2024, Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek Saab announced the impending release of 223 individuals who were arrested during protests related to the elections. This latest decision brings the total number of individuals released to 956, following a series of prior announcements aimed at liberating a fraction of the over 2,000 individuals detained post-election. Despite this development, human rights organizations have pointed out that they could only confirm certain releases, with reports indicating that at least three detainees have lost their lives while in custody.
The political climate in Venezuela has been tense following a July election in which President Nicolas Maduro allegedly secured a third term, according to the country’s electoral authorities and supreme court. However, opposition figures have challenged the official results, claiming that their own assessments from ballot boxes indicate a significant victory for their candidate. The protests that erupted in response have led to widespread arrests, placing a spotlight on issues of human rights and governance within the country.
In summary, the Venezuelan authorities are proceeding with the release of election protestors amidst ongoing scrutiny from human rights groups. While the release of nearly a thousand individuals may signify a shift, the deaths of several detainees highlight the ongoing concerns regarding the treatment of prisoners and the political situation in Venezuela. The opposition continues to contest the results of the July election, leading to a climate of tension and unrest.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
