Venezuela's government confirmed on 12/1 the appointment of Captain Juan Escalona as Minister of the Presidential Office by interim President Delcy Rodriguez. Escalona's responsibilities include managing the Venezuelan leader's agenda and liaising with government agencies.
Rodriguez added that Escalona replaces Anibal Coronado, who has been transferred to the position of Venezuela's Minister of Social Economy.
"I am confident that his loyalty, competence, and dedication will ensure the realization of the plans of a government that always stands with its people," Rodriguez said regarding Escalona.
Escalona previously served as an aide to former Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez. He was a member of President Nicolas Maduro's bodyguard team until Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were arrested by the US on 3/1.
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Juan Escalona photographed with President Maduro and his wife. Photo: elcolombiano
The US operation in Venezuela to arrest Maduro and his wife resulted in the deaths of 55 bodyguard members, including 32 Cubans.
Rodriguez had also previously appointed General Gonzalez Lopez as the new commander of the Presidential Guard and head of military intelligence. This unit ensures the safety of Venezuelan leaders.
According to an announcement from the Venezuelan government, these personnel changes reflect efforts to maintain institutional continuity and strengthen national security under the leadership of interim President Rodriguez.
President Maduro and his wife are currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, New York, awaiting trial. Maduro and his wife first appeared in federal court in New York City on 5/1.
According to the indictment, Maduro faces four charges: drug-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine import conspiracy, possession of machine guns and explosive materials, and conspiracy to possess these items. Flores is accused of "ordering kidnapping and murder" and accepting bribes. Both assert their innocence.
The next hearing will take place on 17/3. Last week, Maduro sent word through his lawyer that he "is doing well" and advised everyone not to be sad.
Ngoc Anh (According to AFP, Xinhua, Reuters)
