Colombia declares national mourning for former Vice President and murdered journalist

Colombia is observing a period of national mourning, a somber occasion marked by the passing of two significant figures: former Vice President Germán Vargas Lleras and the young journalist Mateo Pérez. President Gustavo Petro's decree reflects the gravity of these losses, spanning the political spectrum and the vital field of journalism. The state funeral for Vargas Lleras, a towering figure in Colombian right-wing politics, underscores his extensive career and influence.

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National mourning is decreed for the young journalist Mateo Pérez and for the former Vice President.

Vargas Lleras, a lawyer by profession, leaves behind a legacy that includes roles as a councilman, senator, minister, and vice president. His two presidential bids, though unsuccessful, cemented his status as a prominent political dynast. President Petro, despite their political differences, acknowledged Vargas Lleras's "seriousness in debate" and lamented the disappearance of such a figure from the political arena.

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both in the Senate and on the campaign trail he behaved like a gladiator and I regret that his seriousness in debate disappears.

In stark contrast to the political sphere, the murder of Mateo Pérez highlights the perilous environment in which journalists operate in certain regions of Colombia. Pérez, who was reportedly working on a story in an area contested by the Clan del Golfo and FARC dissidents, had become a crucial voice for his local community. His work, which focused on corruption, public order, security, and local politics, made him a target. The Fundación para la Libertad de Prensa (FLIP) has rightly pointed to his importance, underscoring the dangerous reality faced by those who seek to inform the public in conflict-affected areas.

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he became a fundamental voice for the local community because on his portal he reported and covered corruption, public order, security, and local politics.