Written By: Alejandra Legarda - Journalist

Diosdado Cabello has been a key figure in Venezuelan politics since Hugo Chávez came to power in 1999, continuing through the current government of Nicolás Maduro. As a military officer, Cabello was a close collaborator of Chávez and one of the main architects of the Bolivarian Revolution. His influence has endured over the decades, solidifying him as one of the most powerful men in Venezuela.

Cabello was born on April 15, 1963, in El Furrial, Monagas, Venezuela. He entered the Venezuelan Military Academy, graduating in 1987 as a communications lieutenant. During his time in the Armed Forces, he was part of the Movimiento Bolivariano Revolucionario 200 (MBR-200), a secret organization founded by Chávez with the aim of carrying out a coup against the government of Carlos Andrés Pérez in 1992. Although the coup failed, Cabello and Chávez became iconic figures in the Venezuelan opposition.

In his political influence in Venezuela, Cabello was one of Chávez's first collaborators in public administration, holding various high-responsibility positions. He served as Minister of Interior and Justice, Vice President of the Republic, and Governor of the state of Miranda. After Chávez's death in 2013, Cabello continued to play a crucial role in Maduro's government, holding strategic positions such as President of the National Constituent Assembly and the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV). His control over the armed forces and close ties to chavismo have allowed him to maintain significant power within the government.

In his personal life, Diosdado Cabello is married to Marleny Contreras, who has also held several government positions, including Minister of Public Works and Tourism. The couple has two children. Throughout his career, Cabello has been a controversial figure, facing accusations of corruption and abuse of power, which he has repeatedly denied.

In conclusion, from his beginnings as a military officer to his consolidation as a political leader, Diosdado Cabello has been a central figure in Venezuela's transformation under chavismo. His influence remains strong, being considered by many as the second most powerful man in the country after Nicolás Maduro.