CARACAS, Feb 6, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Venezuela's parliament on Thursday gave its initial approval to a landmark amnesty bill covering the types of charges used to lock up dissidents under ousted leader Nicolas Maduro and his predecessor Hugo Chavez. But the bill does not cover serious human rights abuses committed during 27 years of socialist rule. Maduro's son, congressman Nicolas Maduro Guerra, added his voice to those calling for unity, saying "Venezuela cannot endure any more acts of revenge." Crucially, it does not grant amnesty for "serious violations of human rights, crimes against humanity, war crimes, intentional homicide, corruption, and drug trafficking," which cannot be pardoned under the Constitution. The bill does however cover unspecified "offenses" committed by judges, prosecutors and other officials.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha February 06, 2026 14:48 UTC