Venezuela Processes Over 1,500 Amnesty Requests

More than 1,500 political prisoners in Venezuela have applied for amnesty under newly enacted legislation, which has already resulted in the release of over 370 detainees. National Assembly chief Jorge Rodriguez announced that these applications are being addressed promptly. The amnesty allows those jailed for political reasons to petition the courts handling their cases. As of now, 80 individuals held in the capital, Caracas, have been released. Further rulings on pending cases are expected within 15 days. The law, backed by the United States, was passed following the removal of former leader Nicolas Maduro. However, the legislation excludes certain individuals prosecuted for acts deemed to threaten Venezuela's sovereignty.