Venezuela postpones presidential elections to 2028 amid US‑linked economic reforms

Analysts say Venezuela is unlikely to hold presidential elections in 2027 and may delay them until 2028. The postponement is tied to a planned economic adjustment programme that U.S. officials, including former Secretary of State Marco Rubio, say must be completed before a transition can occur.

The proposed reforms involve eliminating subsidies, privatising state‑owned firms, restructuring ministries and public wages, and restoring fiscal balance under the supervision of the International Monetary Fund. U.S. policymakers argue that holding elections before these measures are in place could trigger severe social unrest and leave a new government with a fragile economy and weak institutions.

If the elections are postponed, current interim leader Delcy Rodríguez could remain in power until 2030, extending the ruling party’s control while the country navigates the difficult recovery phase.