Colombia's Petro provisionally suspended amid election campaign probe

Colombian President Gustavo Petro faces a provisional suspension from his presidential duties as an investigation into his alleged participation in the electoral campaign unfolds. The order comes from Gloria Arizabaleta, president of the House of Representatives' Investigation and Accusation Commission. Arizabaleta, a member of Petro's own Pacto Histórico party, has suspended the president from his role until June 21 at 4:00 PM local time, coinciding with the closing of the polls for the second round of presidential elections. This measure, if it materializes, would mark an unprecedented event in Colombia's history, as Petro would be the first president to be suspended from office. However, the ultimate authority to suspend the president lies with the Senate. Arizabaleta justified her decision by stating that a provisional suspension can be ordered when there is significant evidence suggesting that the official's continued presence in their role could interfere with the investigation process. The commission's findings will ultimately determine the president's fate.