Colombia's President Petro bids farewell from presidential palace

Colombian President Gustavo Petro made his formal exit from the Casa de Nariño on Friday, marking the end of his constitutional term. The departure occurred ahead of the official handover ceremony to President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella.

Accompanied by his young daughter, Antonella, and most of his government team, Petro addressed the nation from the executive headquarters' steps. He offered a final message, stating, "Farewell. Freedom and life. Always, always and always. Thank you for accompanying me, soldiers for taking care of me. I believe you leave better than when I entered. So, long live free Colombia!"

In a video message released by the presidency before his departure, Petro's daughter read a letter of gratitude to the staff of the presidential residence. Notably absent from the ceremony was the Minister of Labor, Antonio Sanguino, who was participating in protests organized by the Historical Pact coalition against recent election results.

The transition of power has been characterized by an unusual absence of preparatory meetings between the outgoing and incoming administrations. President-elect De la Espriella has reiterated plans to relocate the operational center of the presidency to other regions, such as Barranquilla, Cali, and Medellín, while transforming the Palacio de Nariño into a museum space.

This year's inauguration ceremony will deviate from tradition. It will be held at the Universidad Santiago de Cali's auditorium, moving away from the usual venues in Bogotá's Plaza de Bolívar and National Capitol. The event is expected to host international delegations, regional heads of state, and Spain's King Felipe VI. The incoming president's first address to the nation will be delivered from the Army's Pichincha Battalion facilities.

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Farewell. Freedom and life. Always, always and always. Thank you for accompanying me, soldiers for taking care of me. I believe you leave better than when I entered. So, long live free Colombia!