Venezuela appoints new transport minister amid earthquake recovery efforts

Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, has appointed Francisco Garcés as the new Minister of Transportation, removing Jacqueline Faría from the post. The reshuffling comes as the nation grapples with the aftermath of powerful earthquakes that struck on June 24, leaving thousands dead and widespread devastation.

Garcés, a civil engineer, takes over a ministry crucial for addressing the infrastructural damage caused by the tremors. The Ministry of Transportation has been actively involved in inspecting damaged roads and mobilizing equipment for recovery efforts, particularly in the heavily impacted coastal region of La Guaira. This area suffered extensive building collapses and road damage.

Jacqueline Faría, who had held the transportation portfolio since March, will now head the Gran Misión Venezuela Renace. This new presidential initiative is tasked with coordinating recovery efforts for housing and infrastructure and ensuring timely responses to families affected by the disaster. Official figures indicate that over 17,000 people were left homeless by the magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes.

The new minister, Garcés, recently led the presidential commission inspecting housing conditions. He expressed his commitment to advancing and strengthening the transportation sector for the benefit of Venezuelans. These appointments are part of a broader pattern of cabinet changes Rodríguez has implemented since assuming office six months ago, following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro by the United States.

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to advance and strengthen this strategic sector at the service of Venezuelans