The government of Colombia, led by President Gustavo Petro, a former guerrilla, has faced significant challenges and criticism. A recent meeting of the Council of Ministers highlighted the discontent among high-ranking officials, including the vice president, with some of the president’s decisions. During this meeting, President Petro expressed his own dissatisfaction with his ministers, citing their failure to fulfill 146 promises and accusing them of having parallel agendas and being disobedient. This tension led to the resignation of Jorge Enrique Rojas Rodríguez, the director of the Administrative Department of the Presidency, just six days after he was appointed. Other senior officials also voiced their discontent, pointing to internal conflicts and questioning the president’s decisions.
The appointment of Armando Benedetti as the head of the president’s office has also sparked controversy. Benedetti had previously stepped down from the government due to corruption allegations, and his new appointment has caused a stir. This move has led some to speculate that President Petro is intentionally creating a crisis to prompt the resignation of officials who are no longer loyal or effective. By doing so, the president may be attempting to reassert control and redirect the course of his government.
The recent events are indicative of a government that frequently makes mistakes and lacks a clear strategy for the future. For instance, the problems of guerrilla activity and insecurity persist, with organizations like the ELN and dissident factions of the FARC expanding their territorial control and violent incidents increasing. Socio-economic factors, such as unemployment and poverty, have contributed to the rise in crime. The situation has led to widespread disappointment and frustration with the government, which is currently lacking a discernible legacy. President Petro’s tactics have raised questions about his ability to lead the country effectively and make meaningful progress on key issues.