Venezuela Attorney General Saab Resigns, Named Acting Ombudsman

Venezuela’s Attorney General Tarek Saab resigned from his post on Feb. 25, the National Assembly announced, ending nearly nine years as the country’s top prosecutor. Lawmakers accepted his resignation during a legislative session and later appointed him as acting ombudsman, a position responsible for overseeing human rights protections and government accountability.

Saab, 63, was first appointed attorney general in 2017 amid political unrest and institutional changes within the country’s justice system.

During his tenure, his office led investigations into corruption cases, economic crimes, and opposition figures accused of plotting against the government. Authorities frequently cited national security concerns in pursuing arrests tied to protests and political demonstrations.

• Venezuela Attorney General Tarek Saab resigns, becomes acting ombudsman
• Saab’s move sparks criticism from human rights groups amid justice concerns
• National Assembly names Larry Devoe acting attorney general, replacements pending

Human rights organizations have long criticized Saab’s leadership, alleging that the prosecutor’s office failed to safeguard due process and permitted politically motivated detentions. International advocacy groups argue that several opposition leaders and activists were prosecuted under broad security laws. Saab has consistently rejected those claims, maintaining that Venezuela does not hold political prisoners and that detainees were charged for specific criminal offenses.

In a letter read before lawmakers, Saab said he fulfilled his responsibilities with integrity during what he described as challenging circumstances for the country. He expressed support for recent legislative measures aimed at easing political tensions and said national reconciliation should remain a priority.

Following his resignation, Larry Devoe, head of the National Council of Human Rights, was named acting attorney general until a permanent replacement is selected. The National Assembly is expected to begin a formal process to appoint both a new attorney general and a permanent ombudsman in the coming weeks.

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Saab’s reassignment comes at a sensitive political moment, as Venezuela faces continued scrutiny over judicial independence, civil liberties, and institutional reform.