Maduro Announces Cabinet Reshuffle in Venezuela

(ANSA) – CARACAS, 27 AUG – Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has announced a major reshuffle within his government with the aim of “strengthening” his leadership in the context of the serious institutional crisis that began with the disputed proclamation of his re-election to lead the country until 2031. “I have a series of announcements, I will renew half of the executive cabinet and I will announce the necessary changes in the different ministries to strengthen the popular government,” the Chavista leader said in a televised announcement. The main changes concern the strategic sectors of Security and Energy. Chavismo’s number two, Diosdado Cabello, one of the hawks in Maduro’s entourage, is moving to the Ministry of Popular Power and the Interior, while Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, a staunch supporter of the Bolivarian leader, will also take on the role of Oil Minister. The government positions of Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez and Foreign Minister Yvan Gil were ratified. (ANSA).