Structural engineer Carlos Genatios questioned why large buildings were erected on soft soil in a seismic zone without proper codes.
Genatios, a former minister under Chávez, said the earthquakes released energy equivalent to 240 Hiroshima bombs. He argued that better planning could have saved many lives.
"The losses could have been far fewer," he said.
Rodríguez has defended her government's response, blaming a media conspiracy.
But a post-disaster poll showed 63% of Venezuelans disapprove of her handling, and nearly half consider fresh elections more urgent than reconstruction.
As the search for survivors continues, the ruins of OPPE 25 stand as a stark metaphor for a revolution that many say no longer exists.
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"There's absolutely no revolution any more – their motivation is basically just money and power," Genatios said.
