Venezuela's Military and Police Pledge Loyalty to Interim President Rodriguez

The show of support comes as Rodriguez continues to navigate both intense domestic pressures and international scrutiny over her leadership.

The allegiance was declared during a ceremony held on January 28 at the Military Academy of the Bolivarian Army in Caracas, where senior defence and security officials rallied behind the acting president. Defence Minister Vladimir Padrino, in an emphatic declaration, said: "We swear absolute loyalty and subordination." He presented Rodriguez with symbolic military regalia, underscoring the armed forces' recognition of her authority as commander-in-chief.

Padrino described the event as "an unprecedented moment in our republic," reflecting the historic nature of the endorsement and the importance of unity among the security services at a critical juncture.

Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, speaking on behalf of Venezuela's police forces, also pledged loyalty to Rodriguez, asserting that supporting her leadership was vital "because we feel that to defend your rule is to defend the continuity of the government and the integrity of the Venezuelan people."

Rodriguez, who assumed the presidency following the US military's capture of Maduro and his wife earlier this month, has sought to consolidate her position while addressing both internal divisions and external pressures. Since taking office, she has initiated measures such as the release of political prisoners previously detained under Maduro's government, and has sought to manage Venezuela's complex relations with international actors.

The United States' role in Maduro's ousting and Rodriguez's installation has made her leadership highly controversial. In remarks linked to the ceremony, Rodriguez appeared to contrast her position with that of opposition figures abroad, stating: "Those who seek to perpetuate harm and damage against the people of Venezuela, let them stay in Washington."

The political landscape remains tense. Key opposition figures have criticised Rodriguez's legitimacy and ability to govern effectively, with some describing her leadership as lacking broader public confidence. Meanwhile, the international community continues to watch how Venezuela's government will balance its internal security, economic challenges, and relationships with both allies and adversaries, as reported by Al Jazeera.

The loyalty pledge by Venezuela's military and police signals a crucial moment in the country's upheaval, potentially shaping the future of governance and stability in a nation long marked by political turbulence.

- ANI