GUATIRE, Venezuela (AP) — Relatives of jailed opposition figures, activists, and journalists gathered outside Venezuelan prisons in anticipation of news as the government initiated the release of a small number of political detainees. This action came nearly a week after the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces, a development that has shifted the political landscape in Venezuela.
Acting President Delcy Rodríguez announced the release of prisoners following statements made by National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez. Relatives were filled with hope as they waited outside the Rodeo I prison in Guatire and El Helicoide, the headquarters of Venezuela's intelligence service and a notorious detention center in Caracas. Many carried candles, banners, and photographs, calling for their loved ones to be freed from what they described as unjust confinement.
Among the emotional gatherings, Jacklin Ibarreto stood outside the Rodeo I prison on January 9, 2026, anxiously waiting for news about her father, Miguel Ibarreto, who has been detained. She and other family members held candles as they prayed for the release of political prisoners amid the atmosphere of uncertainty. The demonstration outside the prison took place on multiple occasions, with gatherings noted on both January 8 and 9, 2026, showcasing the growing pressure on the government from the families of the detained.
Numerous families took to the streets to express their frustrations and demands. For instance, Shakira Ibarreto expressed her desire for her father to be released, joining others in holding candles in a poignant display outside the Rodeo I prison in Guatire. The continuous calls for justice and freedom highlighted the ongoing struggle of families whose lives have been significantly impacted by the political turmoil in Venezuela.
Moreover, on January 9, 2026, relatives of political prisoners gathered outside El Helicoide. They held banners and candles in a silent vigil, articulating their hopes for the release of their loved ones. Francy Fernandez was among those who lit candles while advocating for her husband, Carlos Julio Rojas, imprisoned under controversial circumstances. Such displays of solidarity reveal both the desperation and determination of families uniting in their shared plight as they seek to bring attention to their loved ones' incarcerations.
As the situation evolves, the involvement of U.S. authorities has been significant. President Donald Trump openly stated that the releases were initiated at Washington's behest, which brings a new dimension to the dynamics of international relations surrounding Venezuela. The administration's recognition of the unfolding circumstances suggests potential changes in diplomatic engagements with the Maduro government.
The gatherings outside the prisons serve to underscore the hearts of families caught in the political strife of Venezuela. Voices calling for justice can be heard not only in the streets of Guatire and Caracas but resonate globally as the world watches the developments in Venezuela unfold. The hope remains that this small release of political prisoners will lead to more comprehensive reforms and potentially signal a shift in the oppressive environment that has prevailed in the nation for years.
Families of detainees remain vigilant, their love driving their pursuit of justice and freedom. With a mixture of hope and anxiety, they await further announcements regarding the fate of their loved ones, determined to stand together in the face of adversity.
