Interim president Delcy Rodriguez assured on Monday that Venezuelans living abroad would be welcomed back with open arms under a new amnesty law enacted after the US-backed removal of Nicolas Maduro, while authorities continued the gradual release of prisoners.
In a televised speech, Rodriguez stated, “The doors of Venezuela, the embrace of the Venezuelan people, are open to those wishing to return in our journey to heal from animosity.”
Approximately seven million Venezuelans have fled the country due to the ongoing political and economic turmoil, with many opposition members residing in exile.
On Monday, at least 30 inmates were freed from the Rodeo I prison near Caracas, prompting emotional reunions with their loved ones. Grecia Arana joyfully embraced her husband Reinardo Morillo as he walked out to freedom, fulfilling her long-held dream.
Amid scenes of jubilation outside the prison, released detainees, including Luis Viera, who spent 13 months behind bars, expressed their relief. Viera exclaimed, “We are now completely free, with no restrictions.”
Concurrently, Venezuelan authorities are advocating for the release of imprisoned former President Maduro, who is currently held in the US. Venezuela’s Foreign Minister Yvan Gil Pinto urged the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva to secure Maduro’s immediate liberation.
Gil emphasized Venezuela’s commitment to a process of reconciliation and forgiveness, underscored by the recent passage of the amnesty law. The legislation, ratified unanimously by the country’s legislature, aims to foster a more democratic and equitable society, as per interim leader Rodriguez.
Amid criticisms from opposition figures about the amnesty law’s scope, Rodriguez’s collaboration with the US has facilitated improved relations with Western nations. The European Union is considering lifting sanctions on Rodriguez, who previously served as Maduro’s deputy.
Furthermore, discussions are ongoing between the UN rights office and Caracas to reestablish a mission in Venezuela after its expulsion in 2024. Rodriguez’s decision to remove Camilla Fabri, the wife of businessman Alex Saab, accused of corruption, from her cabinet signals a departure from past practices. Saab, indicted in the US for money laundering, returned to Venezuela in 2024 in a prisoner exchange and was relieved of his government position in January. Fabri, who held the role of deputy minister for international communication, was dismissed on Monday.