Venezuela attorney general resigns, then lands acting ombudsman role in surprise move - AP News

AP News
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Venezuela’s attorney general has made a surprising move by resigning from his post and subsequently being appointed as the acting ombudsman. This unexpected shift comes amid heightened political tensions and an ongoing economic crisis in the country. The resignation of the attorney general has raised questions about the motivations behind this decision and its implications for Venezuela's legal and governance framework. The attorney general’s decision to step down from his role has been met with both intrigue and speculation. Observers suggest that this move could be part of a broader political strategy by President Nicolás Maduro to consolidate control over key institutions. The appointment as acting ombudsman, a position traditionally seen as a check on government power, is particularly notable given the current climate of human rights concerns in Venezuela. The ombudsman role, which focuses on protecting citizens' rights and overseeing complaints against state officials, has been significantly impacted by this change. Critics argue that having someone with close ties to the government in this position could undermine its independence and effectiveness. This raises concerns about the impartiality of the office and its ability to address human rights issues adequately. This development highlights the delicate balance of power within
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Originally published on AP News on 2/26/2026