First Links - 7.15.10

Cuba to release 52 political prisoners, Catholic Church says

The Cuban government will free 52 political prisoners, Catholic officials in Havana said Wednesday, the largest release of captive dissidents in decades and a surprise gesture that could help thaw relations with the United States.

“Let’s be clear: this law is not a law, although it is presented as such by some politicians and lawmakers. It is no law because nobody has the right to take the life of an innocent human being. For this reason it is not obligatory. Moreover, it demands direct opposition without distinction.”

President Hugo Chavez has ordered a review of Venezuela’s ties with the Vatican amid tensions between his government and the country’s bishops. An accord with the Vatican gave privileges to the Catholic Church not enjoyed by other churches, he said. The Venezuelan Episcopal Conference warned this week about growing political polarisation ahead of key legislative elections in September.

Mr Chavez has described local Catholic leaders as “troglodytes”. He also challenged the Pope’s authority, saying he was the Vatican’s head of state but not Christ’s emissary on Earth. “Christ does not need an ambassador. Christ is in the people and in those of us who fight for justice and freedom for the humble,” he said.