Dozens of Jailed Activists Released in Venezuela

Dozens of activists in Venezuela who government opponents consider political prisoners were released from jail Friday in what authorities called a gesture aimed at uniting the fractured nation, officials said.

Among the 39 prisoners set free under strict conditions are former mayor Daniel Ceballos, who had been detained for four years for promoting protests in the western city of San Cristobal, according to Venezuela’s Supreme Court.

Delcy Rodriguez, president of the Constituent National Assembly, said this is the first round and promised more prisoner releases.

President Nicolas Maduro said after being re-elected on May 20 in a contested victory that chief among his conciliatory measures would be releasing prisoners jailed for acts against the government.

Venezuelan “is greatly ready for a frank, sincere and constructive dialogue,” Maduro said in a tweet early Friday before the announcement. “The doors are open for those who choose the path of peace and reconciliation.”

The issue of the prisoners has been a sticking point during reconciliation talks, and opposition leader Laidy Gomez said discussions with Maduro a day prior were focused on ending political persecution.

Maduro called for some prisoners to be let go, but ruled out the release of those accused of homicide.

Ceballos, 34, was accused in 2014 of the crimes of rebellion and illegal association to commit wrongful acts, charges rejected by his lawyers, relatives and opponents.

While released, Ceballos must report to authorities monthly, he can’t leave Venezuela and he’s banned from talking to the media or…