Venezuela's acting president claimed the regime's release of political prisoners signaled a new era for the country, days after the seizure and rendition of Nicolás Maduro. Delcy Rodríguez stated the releases sent "a very clear message" that Venezuela was opening up to a new political moment.

Rodríguez vowed to continue the releases, while simultaneously accusing NGOs that have criticized the process as slow and opaque of spreading falsehoods about Venezuela. "The message is very clear: it is a Venezuela opening up to a new political moment that allows understanding amid divergence and ideological political diversity," Rodríguez said in a speech alongside her brother, who is widely believed to share power with her.

The releases come at a time of significant political upheaval in Venezuela. The circumstances surrounding Maduro's removal remain unclear, but the event has triggered a series of reactions from both domestic and international actors. The acting government's claim of a "new era" is being met with skepticism from human rights organizations and international observers, who point to the large number of remaining political prisoners.

According to NGOs, approximately 1,000 political prisoners remain in Venezuelan custody, despite the recent releases. These organizations have consistently documented cases of arbitrary detention, torture, and unfair trials targeting individuals perceived as opponents of the regime. The opaque nature of the release process has also raised concerns about transparency and due process.

The situation highlights the complex interplay between political rhetoric, human rights, and international relations. The Venezuelan government's use of language to frame the releases as a sign of progress contrasts sharply with the reality on the ground, as reported by human rights groups. This discrepancy underscores the importance of independent verification and critical analysis of official statements.

The future of Venezuela's political landscape remains uncertain. While the release of some political prisoners is a positive step, the continued detention of hundreds more raises questions about the true extent of the regime's commitment to reform. The international community is closely watching developments in Venezuela, with many calling for further releases, greater transparency, and respect for human rights.