Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has initiated significant changes within his cabinet, including the leadership of the state oil company PDVSA, following a controversial election that both the ruling party and the opposition claim to have won. The reshuffle includes the return of Diosdado Cabello, a prominent hard-liner and leader of the ruling party, who will now serve as the new interior, justice, and peace minister.
Vice President Delcy Rodriguez will retain her position but will also take on the oil ministry, reflecting Maduro’s intent to streamline leadership during a time of political unrest. Anabel Pereira has been appointed as the new finance minister, replacing Rodriguez.
Maduro described the cabinet changes as a “profound renovation” aimed at addressing the needs of the Venezuelan people and transitioning the government towards new paths. The political climate has been tense since the July 28 election, which has led to international calls for transparency in vote tallies and sparked protests.
The new president of PDVSA, Hector Obregon, replaces Pedro Tellechea, who will now head the Industry Ministry. Rodriguez’s established relationships with business leaders may help bolster PDVSA’s sales, especially amid ongoing U.S. sanctions and economic challenges facing the country.