In the wake of devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, acting President Delcy Rodríguez has robustly defended her government’s response. Criticism has mounted over perceived delays in the crisis management and concerns that the actual death toll is significantly higher than reported. Additionally, accusations have surfaced that poorly constructed social housing worsened the disaster’s impact.

Government Response Criticized

Following the removal of former President Nicolás Maduro in January, Rodríguez’s administration strives for legitimacy amid accusations of slow and disorganized response efforts. Residents in La Guaira, the most affected area, reported a lack of immediate search-and-rescue operations. Many were left to search through rubble for loved ones, lacking proper equipment.

Experts attribute vulnerabilities to inferior construction practices, a legacy of Hugo Chávez’s presidency, which compromised building safety during the quakes. An aerial view of La Guaira’s Caraballeda region showcased extensive devastation.

Rodríguez’s Defense

At a press conference in Caracas, Rodríguez, donning a black ribbon as a mourning symbol, countered the accusations. “We did not wait; we activated immediately,” she asserted, chastising journalists for misinformation. She stressed that politicizing this humanitarian crisis was unacceptable and emphasized their multi-sector efforts, both national and international.

The official death toll reached 2,295 as of Wednesday, though updates have been sparse. The government maintains strict control over information and relief operations.

Miraculous Survivor Rescue

Amid ongoing rescue efforts, emergency workers celebrated rescuing Hernán Alberto Gil Flores, a 43-year-old security guard, found under rubble nearly eight days post-quake. Rescuers managed to supply him sustenance through gaps, enabling his survival well past the typical 72-hour survival window.

Footage of Gil Flores’s rescue was widely broadcasted, depicting joyous scenes as rescuers from ten countries assisted in his extraction. Despite successes, hopelessness gripped many in La Guaira, with thousands still unaccounted for. Reports of missing persons exceeded 38,000, as families feared their loved ones remained beneath the debris.

Official Numbers and Transparency

Responding to inquiries about potentially higher death tolls, Rodríguez stood by the official count, insisting on the rigorous verification of numbers. She acknowledged initial local response efforts due to delayed aid arrival but reaffirmed rapid mobilization thereafter.

The situation posed a significant challenge for Rodríguez, appointed interim leader following her tenure as vice president during Maduro’s administration. Discussions about her mandate’s extension arose, with constitutional provisions for interim leadership being scrutinized.

Acceptance of International Aid

Rodríguez openly welcomed international assistance, a marked difference from former President Chávez’s rejection of foreign help during similar past disasters. She expressed gratitude towards nations like Israel and Ecuador, despite lacking formal diplomatic relations. She also recognized support from the U.S., noting significant financial and personnel commitments to relief efforts.