Colombia inaugurates new presidential headquarters in Barranquilla amid controversy

Colombia has inaugurated a new presidential headquarters in Barranquilla, a neoclassical building intended to serve as the office for President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella when he takes office on August 7, 2026. The structure, located within the Second Brigade of the National Army at Battalion Paradise, has undergone extensive renovations.

Workers are currently finalizing the building, which features underground levels designed for security and a "situation room" for intelligence briefings and real-time operations monitoring. Its appearance, with a red roof and a prominent inscription, has drawn criticism from some Barranquilla residents who deem the rapid, modernizing reforms "too banana republic" and a "dangerous frivolity" that breaks with democratic traditions. Images circulating on social media highlight the building's resemblance to a "tropical White House."

Concerns have also been raised about the funding for the renovations. Senator Orlando De la Hoz criticized the work as "folklore and improvised" and demanded clarity on its financing, noting it lacks approval from the Ministry of Defense. The governor of Atlántico, Eduardo Verano De la Rosa, clarified that public funds were not used, with private local businessmen, including material suppliers like Tecnoglass, contributing to the project.

This move to establish an alternate presidential seat in Barranquilla is part of the future government's decentralization plan. De la Espriella's administration also plans to establish alternative headquarters in Medellín and Cali, while the Palacio de San Carlos in Bogotá will serve as a presidential venue. The historic Casa de Nariño is slated to become a public museum.

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