A collective of thirty-two former heads of state and government, integrated into the Democratic Initiative of Spain and the Americas (Grupo IDEA), has demanded the unconditional release of all political prisoners in Venezuela. The experts emphasized that restoring the rule of law requires not only the release of detainees but also the repeal of repressive laws. Signatories include prominent figures like former Spanish Prime Ministers José María Aznar and Mariano Rajoy, and former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe. This call follows demands from former Argentine President Mauricio Macri. However, figures on released prisoners vary: from 391 to 895, while the Venezuelan Penal Forum records 687 still in custody. Grupo IDEA expressed concern over the amnesty bill, warning that freed citizens remain vulnerable to an arbitrary judicial system as long as repressive laws are in place. The group insists a transparent legal framework is essential for sustainable freedom.
