Following the recent capture of Nicolás Maduro, Venezuela’s governance has transferred to Delcy Rodríguez, the Executive Vice President. The Venezuelan Constitution outlines this transition under Articles 233 and 234, which dictate that the vice president assumes leadership in the absence of the president, whether temporary or permanent. Rodríguez officially took over on Saturday afternoon.
Immediate Actions by Delcy Rodríguez
Shortly after Maduro’s arrest, Rodríguez chaired a National Defense Council meeting with key ministers and officials. During this session, she demanded the immediate release of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, while condemning the U.S. military actions. Rodríguez emphasized that the operation constitutes a significant violation of international law and Venezuelan sovereignty.
Rodríguez’s Background and Political Influence
Delcy Rodríguez, 56, hails from Caracas and studied law at the Central University of Venezuela. She has been a prominent figure in chavismo for over two decades, a political movement initiated by Hugo Chávez and continued by Maduro since Chávez’s death in 2013. She has held several significant positions, including:
- Minister of Communication and Information (2013-2014)
- Foreign Minister (2014-2017)
- President of the Constituent National Assembly (2017)
- Vice President (from 2018)
Throughout her career, Rodríguez has defended Maduro against various accusations, including democratic regression and human rights abuses.
Controversial Political Landscape
Venezuela’s opposition claims that the recent elections held in July 2024 were rigged and that Maduro is not a legitimate president. They argue that Edmundo González Urrutia was the actual winner, a claim bolstered by support from some regional governments. José Manuel Romano, a constitutional lawyer, states that Rodríguez is a trusted figure within the Venezuelan administration, known for her strong leadership qualities and significant influence.
Potential Shift in U.S.-Venezuela Relations
In the wake of Maduro’s capture, U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had conversed with Rodríguez. Trump noted that she expressed a willingness to collaborate with the U.S. regarding Venezuela’s future. However, some analysts question her potential for moderation, citing her long-standing influence as a hardliner in the Maduro administration.
Rodríguez’s Stance and Future Implications
Despite the surprising dialogue from the U.S. administration, Rodríguez remained unwavering in her declarations. In a VTV interview, she stated her determination to ascertain the fate of Maduro and Flores, calling into question their safety. During the National Defense Council session, she reiterated that Nicolás Maduro remains the president of Venezuela, reinforcing her position as the primary spokesperson for the government.
Rodríguez’s rise to power signifies a pivotal moment for Venezuela. As the situation evolves, her leadership in the aftermath of Maduro’s capture will profoundly impact the nation’s political landscape and its relations with the international community.
