Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Pablo Guanipa has been released from detention following the passage of a new amnesty law approved by the National Assembly and signed by interim President Delcy Rodríguez.
Guanipa announced his freedom on social media, saying he had endured “almost nine months of unjust imprisonment.” The senior member of the Justice First party had been detained after challenging Venezuela’s disputed 2024 presidential election results.
Amnesty Law Aims to Free Political Prisoners
The newly approved amnesty law is expected to lead to the release of hundreds of detainees accused of politically related crimes. Authorities say the measure is designed to promote national reconciliation and forgiveness following years of political tension.
However, critics argue that the legislation does not cover all individuals they consider political prisoners. Guanipa himself described the law as “flawed,” claiming that many Venezuelans remain unjustly behind bars.
Background to Guanipa’s Arrest
Guanipa, a former vice-president of the National Assembly, went into hiding in 2025 after being accused of terrorism and treason. Security forces later detained him in May of that year.
Earlier this month, he was briefly released but rearrested and placed under house arrest for allegedly violating the terms of his conditional freedom. His latest release comes amid broader political changes in the country.
Political Tensions Continue
Venezuela’s socialist government has long denied holding political prisoners. Yet opposition leaders and international human rights organisations have accused authorities of using detentions to silence dissent.
The amnesty law was introduced shortly after dramatic political developments earlier this year, including the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by US forces in January. In the days that followed, officials signalled that a “significant number” of detainees would be freed as a goodwill gesture.
Opposition Reaction
Guanipa is a close ally of exiled opposition leader María Corina Machado, who won last year’s Nobel Peace Prize. Machado has pledged to return and lead Venezuela “when the right time comes,” reinforcing hopes among supporters for political transition.
While the release of Guanipa marks a significant moment for Venezuela’s opposition, activists say transparency and fairness in the amnesty process remain key concerns.
