Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez has announced a sweeping amnesty law that promises to release hundreds of political prisoners and close the country’s most feared detention center. In a move aimed at "healing the wounds" of a fractured nation, the proposal excludes those convicted of homicide or human rights violations but signals a dramatic shift in the post-Maduro era.

The announcement, made from the Supreme Tribunal of Justice in Caracas, comes just weeks after the dramatic ouster of Nicolás Maduro, marking a pivotal moment in Venezuela's transition. Rodríguez framed the initiative not merely as a legal concession, but as a necessary step toward national reconciliation in a country torn apart by decades of polarization and authoritarian rule.

Closing the "House of Dreams"

The most symbolic component of the proposal is the closure of El Helicoide, the spiral-shaped modernist icon that became a dungeon for the regime’s opponents. Known ironically as "The Helix," it served as the headquarters of the intelligence services and a site where human rights groups have documented systematic torture for years.

"We are transforming this symbol of pain into a center for sports, culture, and social service," Rodríguez declared, flanked by members of the judiciary. "Never again shall the walls of our institutions be used to silence dissent. We must build a justice system that serves the people, not one that oppresses them."

• The Scope of Amnesty: The law covers politically motivated crimes committed between 1999 and the present, potentially freeing student protesters, journalists, and opposition activists.
• The Red Lines: Rodríguez was explicit that the amnesty is not a "blank check." Crimes involving drug trafficking, corruption, homicide, and crimes against humanity are strictly excluded.
• International Pressure: The move follows intense diplomatic pressure from the United States and regional powers to stabilize the country and restore democratic norms following the leadership change.

A Skeptical Opposition

While the announcement has been welcomed by some families of detainees, the opposition remains wary. Activists point out that "political prisoners" are often held on trumped-up charges of terrorism or treason, which might technically exclude them from the amnesty if not carefully defined.

Alfredo Romero, head of the legal aid group Foro Penal, urged caution. "An amnesty law is only as good as its implementation," he said. "We have seen promises before. We need to see the prison doors open and our brothers and sisters walking free before we can celebrate."

The transition government faces a Herculean task. Beyond the human rights crisis, Venezuela is grappling with an economic collapse that has driven millions into exile. By prioritizing the release of prisoners, Rodríguez appears to be extending an olive branch to the opposition, whose cooperation is essential for rebuilding the state.

The Road Ahead

The bill now heads to the National Assembly, where it is expected to be fast-tracked. For the families of those held in El Helicoide, the wait is agonizing. Many have spent years bringing food and medicine to the gates, unsure if their loved ones were still alive.

"I just want to hold my son again," said Maria Gonzalez, whose son was detained during the 2024 protests. "They took his youth away. If this law gives him back his future, then I can finally forgive." The coming days will test whether this amnesty is a genuine fresh start or a strategic maneuver in the high-stakes game of Venezuelan politics.