Diosdado Cabello

Diosdado Cabello, born on April 15, 1963, is a prominent Venezuelan politician and former military officer who has held various significant positions in the government. As of 2024, he serves as the Minister of Interior, Justice and Peace, showcasing his enduring influence in Venezuelan politics. Cabello played a pivotal role in the political landscape, notably aiding Hugo Chávez's return to power after the 2002 coup attempt.

His political career includes serving as the Governor of Miranda state from 2004 to 2008, a position he lost to opposition leader Henrique Capriles Radonski. Following this, he was appointed as the Minister of Public Works and Housing, and later took on the role of head of the National Commission of Telecommunications in 2009. Cabello's influence continued to grow as he was elected to parliament in 2010 and became the President of the National Assembly in 2012, a role he maintained until 2016.

Despite his political achievements, Cabello's career has been marred by serious allegations. He has faced accusations of leading the Cartel of the Suns, engaging in nepotism, and directing colectivos with funds from Petróleos de Venezuela. Reports indicate that he has been implicated in numerous corruption allegations, with claims of receiving bribes exceeding one hundred fifty million dollars and misusing over two hundred thirty million dollars. Furthermore, a German bank account linked to him reportedly contained two hundred fifty million dollars.

In recent years, Cabello has been the subject of international scrutiny, with the U.S. Department of State offering a ten million dollar reward for information leading to his arrest in connection with drug trafficking. In 2025, the DEA announced an increased reward of twenty-five million dollars for his capture, highlighting the serious nature of the charges against him. Despite these controversies, Cabello has been described as one of the most powerful figures in Venezuela, wielding significant influence over the military and political spheres.