Medellín Mayor's Movement Gains Two Ministries After Election Setback

The political movement 'Creemos,' associated with Medellín Mayor Federico Gutiérrez Zuluaga, is making a significant comeback in national politics by securing two ministerial appointments in the new government. This development follows a disappointing showing in the recent legislative elections where the movement failed to meet the threshold for legal party status.

Juliana Gutiérrez, sister of Mayor Federico Gutiérrez, has been appointed Minister of Sport, while Natalia López has been designated as the Minister of Labor. These appointments signal a shift for 'Creemos,' moving from a limited presence in Congress to holding key positions within the national government, under the guidance of Abelardo De La Espriella.

Prior to the legislative elections in March, 'Creemos' had aimed to surpass the necessary threshold to become a recognized political party. The movement had formed an alliance with Abelardo De La Espriella's 'Defensores de la Patria' and nominated Juliana Gutiérrez as its lead candidate for the Senate. Experts had predicted strong performance for 'Creemos,' particularly in Antioquia, its perceived stronghold.

Despite internal confidence and projections, 'Creemos' did not achieve its electoral goals, finishing third in Antioquia for both Senate and Chamber of Representatives elections. The movement garnered a total of 473,062 votes across both chambers, falling short of the 3% margin required to secure party status. While they managed to secure two seats in the Chamber of Representatives with 269,927 votes, the overall legislative election results were considered a setback.

The inclusion of Juliana Gutiérrez and Natalia López in the cabinet represents a strategic repositioning for 'Creemos,' allowing the movement to exert influence at the national government level despite its recent electoral challenges. This move provides a new platform for the movement's political agenda.