Cepeda launches opposition from Barranquilla, questioning De la Espriella's government legitimacy

Senator Iván Cepeda has declared that the Pacto Histórico will not recognize the legitimacy of the new government led by Abelardo De la Espriella, vowing to mount an opposition focused on defending the reforms and policies of the previous Gustavo Petro administration. Cepeda's strong stance was articulated from Barranquilla, coinciding with the inauguration of the new president and a planned civil disobedience rally.

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The senator announced opposition to the new government and launched questions about his nationality and alleged foreign ties.

A key argument from Cepeda centers on De la Espriella's U.S. citizenship, which the senator deems an "insurmountable incompatibility" for the presidency. Cepeda suggested this dual nationality could mean the new president might prioritize U.S. interests over national ones, potentially making him susceptible to foreign pressure. He also linked De la Espriella to businessman Alex Saab and individuals associated with drug trafficking, asserting that the new president "sooner or later will have to face his debts with U.S. justice."

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This condition would represent an insurmountable incompatibility to exercise the presidency and maintained that the new president could respond to the interests of the United States.

The opposition plans to mobilize in the streets and support social movements' demands. Cepeda emphasized that the Pacto Histórico would defend reforms implemented over the last four years, particularly those concerning social policies and land distribution. He called for continued mobilization against the new administration's decisions, framing the opposition as "responsible" despite the harsh rhetoric.

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Sooner or later, Mr. De la Espriella will have to face his debts with U.S. justice.

The rally, planned for the south-east of Barranquilla, was organized as part of a strategy of civil disobedience. Supporters of the Pacto Histórico gathered in the area, with Cepeda expected to address the crowd later in the day. The senator's accusations escalate tensions as the new government takes office.

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The Pacto Histórico will exercise a responsible opposition.