Colombia's President Faces Backlash Over Earthquake Response Missteps

Colombia's new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, is navigating his first political storm following a series of missteps in his government's handling of a devastating earthquake. The nation is still reeling from the 7.4 magnitude quake that struck the western part of the country, leaving over 300 dead and displacing thousands who are now living in makeshift shelters.

Adding to the crisis, the newly appointed Minister of Housing, Jaime Andrés Beltrán, faced widespread criticism after images surfaced of him vacationing with his family in Santa Marta, a popular Caribbean tourist destination, just a week after taking office. Beltrán defended his actions, stating that family is as important as public service and that he was on a family gathering.

Meanwhile, President de la Espriella himself encountered backlash during a visit to Puerto de Buenaventura, a city near the earthquake's epicenter. Videos circulating on social media show him distributing soccer balls emblazoned with his campaign slogan, "Firmes por la patria," from his armored vehicle. This gesture drew sharp condemnation from residents struggling with the aftermath of the disaster, with one person heard shouting, "26 schools fell, the hospital is collapsed, and how is it possible that people receive a ball?"

The incidents have fueled anger and accusations of insensitivity. Senator Carol Borda, from the president's own party, Salvación Nacional, expressed dismay at the "painful disconnection" from the plight of families facing homelessness. The opposition Centro Democrático party also criticized Minister Beltrán, arguing his actions put President de la Espriella in a difficult position.

“

Qué nivel de desconexión tan doloroso cuando la zozobra de miles de familias es tener sus hogares destruidos y no saber dónde van a dormir