Venezuela’s Opposition Leader Leopoldo López Freed, Moved to House Arrest After Years Behind Bars

CARACAS — In a dramatic turn of events, Leopoldo López, one of the most prominent opposition leaders in Venezuela, has been released from prison and placed under house arrest after more than three years in a military facility. The announcement, made by Venezuela’s Supreme Court, marks a significant moment in the country’s ongoing political crisis.

López, formerly the mayor of a Caracas suburb and an outspoken critic of President Nicolás Maduro’s government, was arrested in February 2014 and convicted in 2015 of inciting violence during anti‐government protests. He had been serving nearly 14 years in prison following the conviction.

The court cited health concerns as the basis for the change in detention status, describing his release as a “humanitarian measure.” While López is no longer held in a military prison, he remains under strict limitations as part of his house arrest.

Supporters gathered outside his residence in Caracas as news broke of his release. López climbed atop a wall, raised a Venezuelan flag, kissed it, and addressed the crowd, delivering a message of resilience and renewed commitment. He vowed not to relent in his efforts to challenge Maduro’s government, stating that his convictions remain intact and that his struggle for change continues.

International reaction was swift. Human rights organizations and foreign governments welcomed the move, seeing it as a potential opening for broader political dialogue and a sign that pressure on Venezuela may be yielding results. Critics argue, however, that house arrest still represents a serious restriction of personal liberty and political rights.

The release of López comes against a backdrop of widespread public discontent, soaring inflation, shortages of basic goods, and frequent protests. Opposition leaders have long demanded the release of political prisoners as part of any meaningful effort at reconciliation. Observers are now closely watching whether this step will lead to further concessions or reforms.

While López remains confined to his home under supervision, many see his release as a symbolic victory that has energized the opposition. For some, it raises hope that Venezuela might move toward easing political repression and addressing grievances that have fueled unrest across the country. However, the path forward remains uncertain, with concerns that the government may continue to use legal and judicial tools to limit opposition activities.