Prisoner releases: government announces 131, Foro Penal confirms 81, and Dinorah Figuera asks for clarity
Foro Penal had verified 81 releases of political prisoners by Monday afternoon, against the 131 announced by the government. According to EFE, Dinorah Figuera, head of the opposition delegation in the talks, asked for clarity on the official figures versus what NGOs have verified. Marco Rubio counted 1,046 releases since January 3, EFE reported.
Emirlendris Benítez, released on Friday on humanitarian grounds, reported to a court in Caracas, according to VPItv. There, lawyer Omar Mora Tosta said some courts keep denying political prisoners their rights. David Placeres said chavismo is hinting that it will free all political prisoners.
«…courts where it seems January 3 never happened. So this cannot go on like this.»— Omar Mora Tosta (on VPItv), August 17, 2026 · watch