Diosdado Cabello, aka “the Octopus,” is a key figure in the Venezuelan power structure. His work has had an immeasurable impact on the volatile cultural and political terrain of the nation. Despite being 62 years old, Cabello has significant influence, as evidenced by him being able to appoint the interior minister. He assumed this position in early 2024 to placate opposition following Nicolás Maduro’s disputed presidential election. His impact extends well beyond government. It extends even into his ruling socialist party and state enterprises, bolstering his control over the police and prison system.
Cabello’s political career has lasted more than 30 years. During that time he has regularly and publicly enjoyed a place at the very top of the Venezuelan government’s upper class. Even after being denied the presidency, he’s been able to maintain and strengthen his power base and public profile. The actions taken during his tenure have raised even greater outrage. He now faces a US indictment and a $25 million bounty for information leading to his arrest. He is currently under serious indictment for a host of crimes including money laundering and grave human rights abuses. These charges serve to deepen the President’s national and international unpopularity.
In addition to his political endeavors, Cabello is known for hosting a television program titled “Hitting it with a Sledgehammer,” which features performances from his pop-singer daughter, Daniella. This show reflects not only his influence but his attempts to maintain a public persona amidst growing unrest in the country.
Cabello was born to humble beginnings in the eastern state of Monagas. His rise undoubtedly started when Venezuela was thriving, with democratic rule and deep pockets funded by oil dollars and aligned with the United States. His experience in the military was instrumental to developing a political career. It was this experience that allowed him to climb to the top during one of the most tumultuous periods.
Most analysts view Cabello as a principal designer of the existing regime. He did not escape criticism, especially for his unyielding personal rivalry with Nicolás Maduro. The competition has raised fundamental questions about his authority. In a matter of weeks, new events have put even more pressure on Maduro’s control.
The former Venezuelan minister Andrés Izarra noted Cabello’s loss of power after facing divisions in the administration.
“He just was totally overrun. I mean, he is the security minister. And they took away the head of state under his nose. I mean, what the fuck? He has no agency. He has no power.” – Andrés Izarra
Cabello has not been discouraged by these challenges and continues with his radical vision for how to govern. He has made a public promise to target dissenters with language that evokes a steely determination to instill discipline at all costs.
“They’re hiding like rats but we’re going to grab them.” – Diosdado Cabello
As the reality in Venezuela unfolds, one thing is clear. Venezuelans have had enough of the political storm. One local resident in the 23 de Enero barrio in Caracas told CRUX that he would like to see Cabello held internationally accountable for his deeds.
“I hope they get this damn Diosado – this guy’s the real ringleader.” – A resident of 23 de Enero
Cabello’s public image as a family man stands in opposition to his political self. Izarra pointed this duality out by describing him as the person who most intensely cherishes family connections.
“He’s a family man – he loves his family and his family loves him a lot as well.” – Andrés Izarra
Even when taking into account the complexities of Cabello’s character and career, it is difficult to overstate the paradoxes inherent in Venezuelan governance. Citizens are becoming more and more frustrated by the economic despair and political oppression. For many, Cabello represents the embodiment of all that is wrong and rotten with Venezuela today.
This is how a 34-year-old supermarket employee from Anzoátegui state, Luis Ginás, helped us understand how everyday Venezuelans felt about the challenge to Maduro’s presidency.
“The guy they took [Maduro] is a puppet.” – A 34-year-old Venezuelan supermarket employee from Anzoátegui state