Rodríguez promises a "responsible" salary increase on May 1st
Just hours before unions and workers attempt to reach the Miraflores Palace to demand a salary increase and decent working conditions, the interim president, backed by the United States, Delcy Rodríguez, gave an address on the night of April 8th with a dose of scheduled hope: she informed that on May 1st her government will announce a salary increase. However, she insisted that it will be a "responsible and sustainable over time" increase.
TL;DR
- Delcy Rodríguez announced a salary increase scheduled for May 1st, emphasizing it will be "responsible and sustainable."
- She blamed the national economic crisis, including inflation and shortages, solely on 'blockades and sanctions' imposed by the United States.
- Rodríguez acknowledged past government errors, urging not to repeat them, without specifying policy failures.
- The government claims the minimum income has risen from $30 in 2021 to $190 by March 2026, including substantial non-monetary benefits (subsidies for CLAP, electricity, water, gas).
- Announced administrative measures include a law to speed up procedures, a Labor Dialogue Commission, a study for a new tax system, and a review of real estate laws to activate dormant housing.
- The recovery of Venezuelan assets abroad is presented as key to sustaining worker income and improving services like electricity, water, and infrastructure.
- A nationwide "pilgrimage" is called for April 19th to protest sanctions, converging in Caracas on May 1st.
- Rodríguez stated that blocked foreign assets can only be fully utilized once sanctions cease, with funds then directed to the Venezuelan people.