Rodríguez Remains in Power Beyond Deadline

CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Delcy Rodríguez remained Venezuela’s acting president on Monday, exceeding the 90-day limit on her temporary role set by the country’s high court following the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro in January. However, it’s unclear how much longer she will keep the post as lawmakers have not taken a public vote to extend her term past last Friday’s deadline.

Legal Basis and Constitutional Questions

According to the court order, Maduro is still officially Venezuela’s president and his “forced” absence resulting from a “kidnapping” makes it temporarily impossible for him to fulfill his duties. Under Venezuela’s constitution, temporary absences are to be filled by the vice president — which was Rodríguez’s former role — for up to 90 days. These interim appointments can be extended by the National Assembly for an additional 90 days.

Uncertainty Over Next Steps

The National Assembly, controlled by Rodríguez’s party, can trigger a snap election if lawmakers declare the post permanently vacant. However, no such vote has taken place, leaving uncertainty about the political future. Analysts say the government could rely on legal interpretations to justify extending her tenure, a strategy that has been used in the past to maintain power.

Context After Maduro’s Arrest

Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured Jan. 3 in Caracas and taken to New York to face drug trafficking charges, to which both have pleaded not guilty. Rodríguez has since led the government, while officials continue to demand Maduro’s release and describe his detention as a kidnapping.

International Dynamics and Political Impact

The situation has drawn international attention, especially as the United States has shifted its stance to work with Rodríguez’s administration instead of Venezuela’s opposition. Her government has pursued economic reforms, including opening the energy sector to investment, while the political situation remains fluid with no clear resolution in sight.

Related: Read also: US Prepares Indictment Against Venezuela's Rodríguez, Machado Sees Trump as Ally Despite US Backing Rodríguez, and Machado Vows Electoral Victory on Return to Venezuela.