The Colombian president, Gustavo Petro, has announced part of the ministerial cabinet that will accompany him during his last 17 months in office. Despite this, several names that were at the center of the recent government crisis have remained in their positions.
Among the appointments revealed at the event held in Bogotá are the controversial Armando Benedetti as Minister of the Interior and retired General Pedro Sánchez as Defense Chief. Additionally, the new ministers of Cultures, Mines and Energy, Environment, Sports, and Equality were presented, the latter being Carlos Rosero, an Afro-Colombian leader who replaces Vice President Francia Márquez.
President Petro also announced the directors of Dapre and DNI, as well as the ambassadors of Colombia in Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The main objective of this new cabinet is to fulfill the ten fundamental points of the government plan, according to the president's words.
These changes occur following a cabinet meeting broadcast in February that revealed divisions and discontent, especially due to the appointment of Benedetti as head of the Presidential Office. Criticism towards him, involved in corruption cases, was expressed by various high officials, some of whom left their positions citing ideological differences.
In his speech, Petro emphasized the diversity of his cabinet and highlighted the appointment of Lena Estrada, an indigenous leader, as Minister of Environment. Estrada is a political scientist with a master's degree and doctorate in Sustainability, as well as extensive experience in public and private organizations.
Ultimately, with these ministerial changes, Petro seeks to consolidate a team that can meet the objectives of his government, addressing the challenges that arise in the coming months.
