Official statements from UN member states and international organizations

Venezuela Frees 328 Detainees, Including Photojournalist, Amid Post-Election Protests

Dec 12, 2024, 09:43 PM

The Venezuelan government has announced the release of 103 individuals arrested during post-election protests, bringing the total number of releases to 328 since the end of November. These releases follow a directive from President Nicolás Maduro to review cases related to acts of violence and crimes committed after the controversial presidential election on July 28, where Maduro was proclaimed the winner. The opposition, led by María Corina Machado, claims that their candidate, Edmundo González Urrutia, won with 70% of the votes, a claim supported by published copies of election minutes. The government, however, maintains that Maduro secured 52% of the votes, with the National Electoral Council yet to provide detailed calculations. The protests resulted in 28 deaths, nearly 200 injuries, and significant property damage, including 500 properties destroyed. Among those released were photojournalist Deisy Peña, who was arrested during her coverage of the protests, and several teenagers accused of terrorism. The releases come amidst ongoing political tensions, with Maduro denouncing González Urrutia for violating an agreement by inciting violence from exile in Spain.