Venezuela’s interim president has proposed a mass amnesty initiative in the country, marking a significant reform following the recent change in leadership after Nicolas Maduro was removed from power by the US. Delcy Rodriguez unveiled the proposal during a speech at the Venezuelan Supreme Court, attended by top government officials. She outlined plans for a “comprehensive amnesty law that encompasses the period of political violence from 1999 to the present.”
Rodriguez emphasized that the proposed law aims to address the lingering impacts of political conflicts characterized by violence and extremism, with the goal of restoring justice within the nation. Additionally, she announced a forthcoming “major national consultation to revamp the judicial system.”
In a further move, Rodriguez disclosed intentions to shut down the infamous El Helicoide prison in Caracas, where reports from rights organizations have highlighted cases of political detainees being subjected to torture by Maduro’s intelligence agencies.
Formerly serving as Maduro’s vice president, 56-year-old Rodriguez has swiftly initiated a series of reforms within a short span of less than a month in office. These changes align with the preferences of the United States, with President Donald Trump commending her efforts. Working alongside her brother, National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez, she spearheaded the passage of legislation that opens up Venezuela’s crucial oil sector to private investments, a move that aligns with US interests.
The legislative action was promptly followed by the easing of US sanctions specifically targeting Venezuela’s oil industry, demonstrating a significant shift in the country’s economic policies.
