Cilia Flores, born in 1956, is the fierce lawyer and politician who stood by Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro as his wife and closest ally. From defending Hugo Chávez in prison to becoming the nation’s first female National Assembly president, she shaped Chavismo’s heart. Called the “first combatant,” her sharp mind and iron will powered their rule through storms, until 2026 shadows fell.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cilia Adela Flores de Maduro |
| Date of Birth | October 15, 1956 |
| Place of Birth | Tinaquillo, Cojedes, Venezuela |
| Age (2026) | 69 Years |
| Nationality | Venezuelan |
| Occupation | Lawyer, politician, TV host |
| Political Party | United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) |
| Key Roles | First female President of National Assembly (2006-2011); Attorney General (2012); Vice President of PSUV; National Constituent Assembly member; “First Combatant” as Maduro’s wife. |
| Spouse | Nicolás Maduro (partner since early 1990s; married July 2013). |
| Children | Walter Jacobo Maduro Flores (son, born ~1991). |
| Education | Law degree from Central University of Venezuela; specialized in labor and criminal law. |
| Early Career | Defense lawyer for Hugo Chávez after 1992 coup attempt; helped secure his 1994 release. |
| Physical Description | No verified height/weight; often seen in public with distinctive short hair and professional attire. |
| Net Worth | Unverified estimates in millions; linked to allegations of corruption and narco-trafficking by US indictments. |
| Notable Facts | Defended Chávez in 1992; swore him into office 2007; key Chavismo figure; US sanctions and 2026 apprehension on drug charges alongside Maduro. |
Early Life
Born October 15, 1956, in Tinaquillo, Cojedes, Venezuela, Cilia Adela Flores grew up in tough Caracas neighborhoods. She earned a law degree from Central University of Venezuela, focusing on labor and criminal cases. Her big break came defending Hugo Chávez after his failed 1992 coup, securing his 1994 prison release.
Political Ascent
Elected to the National Assembly in 2000, she became its first female president from 2006 to 2011. Flores swore Chávez into office in 2007, served as attorney general in 2012, and rose as PSUV vice president. She partnered with Nicolás Maduro in the early 1990s; they married in July 2013.
Peak Influence
As “first combatant,” Flores advised Maduro during economic collapse, protests, and sanctions. She won seats in the 2015 Assembly and 2017 Constituent Assembly, wielding behind-the-scenes power. U.S. indictments later accused her of narco-trafficking ties.
Recent Events
Flores faced international scrutiny amid Venezuela’s crises, with her son Walter Jacobo from her relationship with Maduro. Reports confirm her 2026 apprehension alongside Maduro on drug charges.