Venezuelan Opposition Leader's Son-in-Law Released After 380 Days in Prison

Sun Feb 01 2026 10:53:46 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Rafael Tudares, son-in-law of opposition candidate Edmundo González, has been freed after over a year of unjust detention, highlighting ongoing political tensions in Venezuela.

Rafael Tudares has been released from prison after nearly 400 days of detention as part of a crackdown on opposition figures in Venezuela. His wife, Mariana González, reported the news, emphasizing the arbitrary nature of his imprisonment. The release follows a broader agenda post the US military operation against President Nicolás Maduro, but human rights groups continue to highlight the plight of many still imprisoned.

Rafael Tudares, the son-in-law of Venezuelan opposition candidate Edmundo González, has been released from prison, his wife has reported, concluding a lengthy period of unjust detention. His release comes after over a year since his arrest as a part of the government's crackdown on dissent amidst political turmoil in Venezuela.

Mariana González announced that her husband is finally home, having spent '380 days of unjust and arbitrary detention.' Tudares was one of many who faced imprisonment under the repressive environment following the 2024 presidential elections, in which the opposition faced significant challenges from the government of Nicolás Maduro.

Since the US military's operation that led to Maduro's capture for drug-trafficking charges, there has been a notable increase in the release of political prisoners. Over 150 detainees, including Tudares, have been released. However, rights organizations warn that 777 remain behind bars, with many still facing unclear legal statuses or lingering charges against them.

Tension continues to brew in Venezuela, now under the leadership of Delcy Rodríguez, former vice-president, who has pledged cooperation with the US, including plans to export large quantities of oil. The political landscape remains volatile, with ongoing concerns about the freedom and welfare of remaining political prisoners.

The plight of Tudares garnered significant attention, marking an emblematic case of oppression following the contentious elections. His imprisonment was perceived as retaliation against González's challenge to Maduro, and many in the opposition have used his story to raise awareness about the ongoing struggles for human rights in Venezuela.

Mariana González, upon her husband’s release, acknowledged the support received in their fight against the political system, while also reminding the public of the continued injustices faced by others who are still awaiting their release, highlighting the need for solidarity among families of victims of political repression.