Court in Venezuela appoints Delcy Rodriguez interim president
The Supreme Court of Venezuela has ruled to temporarily vest the powers of the presidency in Delcy Rodriguez. The decision was announced by Judge Tania D'Amelio, explaining that it was necessary to ensure the continuity of government and the country's defence in the emergency situation following the events of 3 January. It is reported by The Public with reference to DW.
The court stressed that it was a temporary replacement. According to AFP, Nicolas Maduro has not been officially removed from office, and therefore the constitutional requirement to hold new elections within 30 days does not apply.
Rodriguez declared her readiness to perform the duties of the head of state, while publicly emphasising that she considers Maduro to be the only president of the country. The court's decision came amid statements by United States of America about the detention of Maduro and the declaration of a state of emergency in Venezuela after the strikes on Caracas. Washington reported that Maduro had been charged with narcoterrorism and announced its intention to temporarily coordinate the transition of power until the situation is stabilised
