Venezuela: Daniella Cabello Named Tourism Minister Amidst Cabinet Changes

Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, appointed Daniella Cabello as the new Minister of Tourism on Monday, February 2, 2026. Daniella Cabello is the daughter of Diosdado Cabello, a prominent figure within the Chavismo movement. This appointment is part of a broader series of cabinet changes following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by the United States nearly a month ago.

New Leadership in Tourism

Rodríguez announced the appointment via Telegram, stating that Daniella Cabello will be responsible for “promoting the development and promotion of the National Tourism System.” Leticia Gómez, the previous Minister of Tourism, was thanked for her “valuable work” in the role.

US Sanctions and Political Shifts

Daniella Cabello was sanctioned by the United States in November 2024, along with 20 other officials. According to Reuters, the sanctions were imposed for “supporting and executing measures of the Maduro regime considered antidemocratic, especially for the repression of civil society.” These sanctions include the freezing of assets, a ban on entering the United States, and restrictions on business dealings with U.S. Individuals and companies.

Did You Know? Since being sworn in as acting president on January 5, Rodríguez has announced ministerial changes in several key areas including Transportation, Communication, Environment, Health, and the Presidential Office, as well as military designations.

Broader Governmental Changes

Beyond the appointment of the new Tourism Minister, Rodríguez announced the designation of Calixto Ortega, former president of the Central Bank, as the new Vice President of Sectoral Economy on January 6, three days after Maduro’s capture. On the same day, she also removed Javier Marcano Tábata as Maduro’s head of Security, replacing him with General Gustavo González López as commander of the Presidential honour Guard and head of the Military Counterintelligence Directorate (DGCIM).

Expert Insight: The swift series of personnel changes suggests an effort by the acting government to consolidate power and potentially signal a shift in priorities following the capture of Maduro. These changes could be aimed at demonstrating stability and a willingness to engage with international actors.

Rodríguez was sworn in before the National Assembly (AN, Parliament) following an order from the Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ) after the capture of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, during U.S. Attacks on January 3. Since then, the interim government has initiated an “exploratory” process to re-establish relations with Washington, agreed to ship millions of barrels of crude oil to the U.S. For commercialization, and opened the oil industry to foreign investment with support from the Republican Administration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the new Minister of Tourism in Venezuela?

Daniella Cabello, the daughter of Diosdado Cabello, was appointed as the new Minister of Tourism on February 2, 2026.

When was Daniella Cabello sanctioned by the United States?

Daniella Cabello was sanctioned in November 2024, along with 20 other officials, for actions related to the Maduro regime.

What other changes has the acting president made since taking office?

Delcy Rodríguez has announced changes in the ministries of Transportation, Communication, Environment, Health, and the Presidential Office, as well as military designations since being sworn in on January 5.

How might these recent changes in leadership affect Venezuela’s relationship with the United States and the international community?