Venezuela Earthquakes Intensify Calls for Humanitarian Release of Political Prisoners

The earthquakes that recently struck Venezuela have brought renewed attention to the critical situation of political prisoners. Many of these individuals remain incarcerated without a final conviction, are held incommunicado, or are confined in detention centers that fail to provide adequate safety and human dignity, particularly during national emergencies.

Legal experts Omar Mora and Juan Garanton emphasize the state's heightened responsibility for detainees during crises. They argue that the current emergency compels the Supreme Court of Justice and the penal system, especially terrorism courts, to review cases of political prisoners awaiting sentencing. The lack of communication exacerbates the anguish for both detainees, who may not know the status of their families, and their relatives, who are unable to confirm their loved ones' well-being.

Relatives and human rights defenders are urgently requesting humanitarian measures. These include reviewing case files, applying alternative sentences, granting house arrest, ensuring regular check-ins, providing medical and psychological care, and establishing immediate family communication channels. The accusation of terrorism, often leveled against political detainees, complicates legal options but does not negate the presumption of innocence or justify prolonged pre-trial detention, overcrowding, or isolation.

Mora and Garanton stress that "life is above any process." They believe the tragedy necessitates a review of cases for political prisoners without firm sentences and the implementation of humanitarian measures to protect their lives, physical integrity, and ability to communicate with families during this national emergency.

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Life is above any process.