Colombia: Political transition, security challenges, and new international routes
Colombian President Gustavo Petro recently clarified that he will leave office on August 6, ending rumors about his potential stay in power. Additionally, the president signed a new decree to organize his personal security scheme after his term ends. This measure seeks to create a standard system for all former presidents and vice presidents of the country, eliminating special guard groups from the past.
In the humanitarian sphere, the release of 13 people held by the ELN guerrilla group in the Catatumbo region was reported. The handover was made to a commission formed by the Catholic Church, the Ombudsman's Office, and the UN. At the same time, the department of Valle del Cauca faces a difficult situation. Governor Dilian Francisca Toro declared a humanitarian health emergency due to the closure of medical services and the critical saturation of emergency rooms in 40 municipalities.
Citizen security also causes concern following a new mass prison escape in Santa Marta. On this occasion, 17 people escaped from a temporary detention center, highlighting the city's prison crisis. On the other hand, in Medellín and other areas of Antioquia, authorities dismantled a curious "call center" that didn't sell services, but heroin. This organization operated near schools and used phone calls to distribute the drug.
On the Caribbean coast, violence against informal lenders, known as "gota a gota," has increased. In Barranquilla, four collectors have been murdered in just five days, the most recent case being that of a 28-year-old man. Regarding public order and politics, the Public Space Ombudsman announced that it will fine 60 politicians from 20 different parties. Candidates must pay millions in fines for placing campaign posters in prohibited locations.
In the economic and transportation sector, Cartagena has strengthened its international connection. The airline Viva Aerobus launched a new direct route between the "Heroic City" and Mexico City. With three weekly flights, this connection opens up great opportunities for tourism and business, allowing travelers to access more than 35 additional destinations from the Mexican capital.
Finally, social media shows a new trend in Colombian politics. Korean music fan groups, known as "K-popers" and "Army," have publicly expressed their support for the Pacto Histórico presidential candidacy. This youth movement demonstrates that pop culture fans are taking an active role in the country's political debates and elections.