Over 200 Venezuelan political prisoners launch hunger strike over amnesty law exclusions
France 24
by FRANCE 24February 22, 2026
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More than 200 Venezuelan political prisoners have launched a hunger strike to protest their exclusion from a new amnesty law approved by Congress last week. The law, backed by the United States after the ouster of former president Nicolas Maduro in January, aims to release thousands of prisoners but excludes those with military-related charges or terrorism allegations. Many inmates at Rodeo I prison, including foreign nationals like Argentine police officer Nahuel Agustin Gallo, feel targeted by these exclusions and are demanding their inclusion.
The hunger strike began on Friday night, with families of the prisoners expressing solidarity. Yalitza Garcia, mother-in-law of Gallo, highlighted the inmates' determination to fight for their freedom. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) visited Rodeo I for the first time on Sunday, marking a significant step toward addressing the prisoners' concerns. However, not all inmates joined the strike, with some reportedly opting to wait for potential releases under the amnesty law.
The new legislation has been criticized for its selective approach, which opposition figures argue unfairly targets political dissidents. While 11,000 prisoners are set for release or house arrest, many others remain detained due to exclusions tied to "armed or forceful actions" against state sovereignty—a charge often leveled at Maduro's opponents. Maria Corina Machado, a Nobel peace laureate and opposition leader, faces such accusations despite her calls to return home.
The amnesty law also excludes members of the security forces convicted of terrorism-related offenses, deepening concerns over its political motivations. Despite these criticisms, hundreds of prisoners have already been released under the bill or prior government actions. On Sunday alone, 23 inmates were freed, with families celebrating their release as a small victory. The situation underscores Venezuela's ongoing struggle to balance political reforms with human rights concerns, particularly amid international pressure and Maduro's US custody awaiting trial.
This crisis highlights the broader challenges of transitioning from authoritarian rule, where past human rights abuses and political repression persist. The hunger strike serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of justice in post-Maduro Venezuela, drawing global attention to the need for fair and inclusive reforms.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/22/2026