Nicolas Maduro opponents awaiting release from prison

Dozens of journalists, government critics and activists have been freed in Venezuela since the US military deposed leader Nicolas Maduro this month.

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Rights NGO Foro Penal said it counted 90 political prisoner releases since January 8, while interim president Delcy Rodriguez reported that 406 people have been freed since December.

Still, despite pressure from Washington, several prominent opposition figures remain behind bars.

Here are four key names to watch:

JUAN PABLO GUANIPA

As a politician, 61-year-old Guanipa is an important ally of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.

He was arrested in May 2025 on accusations of conspiring with the US government to overthrow Maduro.

His son Ramon Guanipa said he receives dozens of messages and calls every day following the government's announcement of impending prisoner releases.

"Until I see a photo of my dad free, I won't believe it," the younger Guanipa told AFP.

"We know it's a slow process...but we know it will end well. We have hope and we're staying strong."