Protests in Caracas Call for Release of Political Prisoners at Helicoide Prison
On Saturday, dozens of family members and supporters of Venezuelan opposition leaders gathered outside Helicoide prison in Caracas, demanding the immediate release of political prisoners.
The protests come amid increasing pressure on the interim government led by Delcy Rodríguez, which has faced criticism for the slow pace of prisoner releases, despite announcing last month a significant number of forthcoming releases.
Families and human rights organizations have pointed out that many detainees have been held for months or even years due to their political views, expressing dissatisfaction with the sluggish progress of the release process.
Simultaneously, Rodríguez has pledged to close Helicoide prison, known for its history of human rights violations and torture, and to convert it into a cultural, social, and sports center serving both police forces and local communities.
The facility was originally a shopping center before its conversion into a prison.
During the protest, minor clashes occurred between members of the Bolivarian National Police and demonstrators, who held signs reading "freedom for all," reiterating their support for a national amnesty law and the urgent need to release all political prisoners.
This event highlights the growing domestic and international pressure on the Venezuelan government to uphold the rights of political prisoners, at a time when authorities are committing to reform measures aimed at closing a facility that has been a focal point of controversy and rights abuses.
