A series of earthquakes struck Venezuela on December 24, 2023, prompting DER SPIEGEL to investigate the country’s leadership structure just prior to the seismic events. The German news outlet’s report, published days before the tremors, focused on the question of who holds real power in a nation grappling with economic collapse and political tension.
Venezuela’s government, led by President Nicolás Maduro, has consistently maintained that executive authority rests with the elected administration. However, opposition figures and international analysts have long debated the extent of Maduro’s control, citing the influence of the military, state security agencies, and regional allies. A 2022 report by the International Crisis Group noted that “military personnel hold key positions in both governance and economic management, complicating assessments of political power.”
DER SPIEGEL’s investigation included interviews with officials from Maduro’s United Socialist Party (PSUV), who emphasized the government’s focus on “stabilizing the country’s infrastructure and social programs.” A senior PSUV representative stated, “Our priority is addressing the needs of Venezuelans, not engaging in political theater.” The outlet also spoke with opposition lawmakers, who described the administration as “increasingly autocratic” and accused it of suppressing dissent through judicial and security mechanisms.
The military’s role remains a point of contention. General Vladimir Padrino López, head of Venezuela’s National Guard, has publicly affirmed loyalty to Maduro, though his tenure has drawn scrutiny over alleged human rights violations. A 2021 United Nations report cited “credible allegations of abuses by security forces,” though no direct link to Maduro’s leadership was established.
International reactions to Venezuela’s political dynamics have varied. The European Union has imposed sanctions on several officials linked to the Maduro government, while Cuba, a long-standing ally, continues to support his administration. Diplomatic sources in Caracas confirmed that Maduro’s government has “no immediate plans to cede power,” though tensions with the U.S. and regional neighbors remain high.
As Venezuela continues to recover from the December earthquakes, questions about governance and authority persist. The government has announced plans to hold a constitutional assembly in early 2024, a move criticized by opposition groups as an attempt to consolidate control. The outcome of this process, and its impact on political stability, remains uncertain.
