Legislative Approval and Presidential Signature on Feb 19‑20 Venezuela’s National Assembly voted to pass the amnesty measure on 19 February 2026, ending a decades‑long denial of political prisoners [2]. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez signed the bill into law the following day, creating a formal mechanism to free detained opponents [1][2]. The rapid transition from legislative vote to presidential signature marks the first official acknowledgment of political detainees in the country’s recent history.

Amnesty Scope Covers 1999‑2024 Political Violence The law grants “general and full amnesty” for crimes linked to politically‑motivated conflicts dating back to 1999, explicitly referencing the violence surrounding the 2024 presidential election [1][2]. It applies to politicians, activists, lawyers and other individuals held for political reasons. Lawmakers added a provision allowing a lawyer to request amnesty on behalf of exiled detainees, removing the requirement that the individual be present in Venezuela [1][2]. The measure excludes offenses unrelated to political motives, though the text leaves some categories ambiguous.

Human‑Rights Groups Estimate Over 600 Detainees, 448 Freed Rights watchdog Foro Penal reports more than 600 people are imprisoned for political reasons, and it has counted 448 releases since the amnesty announcement [1][2]. Families of the remaining detainees staged protests outside detention centers and began a hunger strike on 14 February demanding faster implementation [1][2]. The organization warns that many releases are occurring slowly and that the law’s impact will depend on how quickly authorities process applications.

Opposition Praise Mixed with Calls for Faster Implementation Opposition deputy Nora Bracho described the legislation as “not perfect, but a great step forward,” highlighting its potential to alleviate suffering for thousands of Venezuelans [1][2]. She and other critics stress that the law must be applied swiftly to avoid further humanitarian criticism [1][2]. The ongoing hunger strike underscores continued frustration among families awaiting the release of loved ones.

Law Passes Amid International Pressure After US Raid The amnesty bill follows a U.S. military operation that captured former President Nicolás Maduro and recent reforms to Venezuela’s oil‑law demanded by Washington [1]. Both articles note that the timing suggests the government is responding to heightened external pressure while seeking to improve its international image [1][2]. Analysts view the legislation as a strategic concession aimed at easing sanctions and diplomatic isolation.