Families of prisoners in Venezuela await the promised release of their loved ones

Families of prisoners in Venezuela are anxiously awaiting their promised release after the interim government announced the start of a process to free political prisoners. Many relatives have been gathering outside prisons in the capital since last Thursday, hoping for news of their loved ones, including opposition figures, civil society activists and journalists. The Associated Press reports.

The country's government, led by acting President Delcy Rodriguez, has promised to release a significant number of prisoners in a "gesture of peace" following the arrest of former President Nicolas Maduro. However, specific lists and exact numbers have not yet been made public, creating uncertainty and tension among families, whose sources human rights organisations cite as more than 800 people they estimate are being held for political reasons.

According to the Foro Penal group, only 49 cases of prisoner releases had been confirmed by Monday afternoon. Among them are both local and foreign citizens. Many relatives continue to wait for news, often spending nights outside prisons in the hope of seeing their loved ones released

In a country where political opponents and critics of the government have been frequently jailed in recent years, the moves are seen as a first step in response to international pressure and demands from human rights groups, but many remain sceptical about the speed and scope of the releases

Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro, prisoners