Venezuela's parliament approves draft amnesty law in first reading

CARACAS, Feb. 5 (Xinhua) -- Venezuela's National Assembly on Thursday unanimously approved in a first reading the draft Amnesty Law for Democratic Coexistence, aimed at laying the groundwork for national reconciliation.

"Words are healing, but they can also hurt. Let us insist on words of healing," said National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez during the session, urging opposition members to "continue being brave" despite potential campaigns against reconciliation.

United Socialist Party of Venezuela legislator Jorge Arreaza, who introduced the initiative, called it an "ethical obligation" to heal wounds, promote dialogue, and rebuild trust for the benefit of the Venezuelan people.

Progressive Advance legislator Luis Romero, from the opposition, described the law as a "formidable opportunity" for national reconciliation, particularly following the U.S. attacks on Jan. 3, and praised Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodriguez for initiating the debate as a courageous step.

The 29-article law establishes a pluralistic special commission for reconciliation to oversee its implementation.

Amnesty will not apply to crimes such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, serious human rights violations, homicide, drug trafficking, or embezzlement of public funds. ■