The Trump administration in the United States is endangering the lives of hundreds of Venezuelan political prisoners by neglecting to prioritize their release in its transition strategies for the nation, according to the mother of two detained and abused brothers.
Marisela Parra, aged 49, expressed satisfaction with the U.S. seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro during a recent military operation. However, she voiced concerns that the U.S. left the existing governing structure intact, posing a significant threat to individuals imprisoned for political motives.
Parra emphasized the need for a transition plan that addresses the release of political detainees promptly. She highlighted the plight of those who have been subjected to torture or forced disappearances by the regime, pointing out that approximately 800 political prisoners are currently held in Venezuela, as reported by the Foro Penal human rights organization.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio unveiled a three-step plan for Venezuela, outlining the release of political prisoners as a secondary phase following the stabilization of the country, which includes the sale of a substantial amount of Venezuela’s oil reserves.
Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s former vice-president, now heads the Venezuelan government, with key officials like Jorge Rodríguez, Vladimir Padrino López, and Diosdado Cabello maintaining their positions. The regime retains control over various aspects of governance, including the legislative branch, the judiciary, and the military.
Parra recounted the ordeal faced by her sons, Leandro Leomar Chirinos Parra and Leonardo David Chirinos Parra. Leandro, involved in a failed coup attempt against Maduro, was sentenced to prison, while Leonardo, a member of Venezuela’s intelligence agency, was detained and tortured for information regarding his brother’s activities.
The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights intervened in Leonardo’s case, highlighting the severe violations he endured while incarcerated, including physical abuse and suffocation. Parra’s family remains deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of both sons.
Following the 2024 election in Venezuela, a wave of arrests targeted opposition members, with numerous individuals detained or disappeared by authorities. Advocates for human rights and political freedom have called for the immediate release of all political prisoners as a crucial step towards a peaceful transition in the country.