Tension in Court: Defense Arguments to Remove Federico Gutiérrez from Aguas Vivas Case

A tense judicial hearing unfolded in Medellín concerning the Aguas Vivas case, involving former mayor Daniel Quintero and 12 other administration officials. Defense attorneys presented legal arguments aimed at nullifying the charges and challenging the District of Medellín's status as a victim in the criminal proceedings.

A critical moment arose when the defense launched a strong legal offensive against the current mayor, Federico Gutiérrez. They requested his removal from his role as the legal representative of the victim (the District of Medellín), alleging a conflict of interest and a personal motive to harm Quintero's situation. The defense pointed out that Gutiérrez himself signed the contract for the land in question during his previous mayoral term in 2019.

As an alternative, the defense proposed that the Comptroller's Office assume representation of the District's interests to ensure impartiality. This move highlights the deep political divisions surrounding the case.

Further complicating the proceedings, another line of defense focused on disputing the economic impact of the real estate transaction. A defense lawyer argued that the public coffers suffered no financial detriment from the Aguas Vivas lot deal, thereby questioning the basis for the State's alleged harm. The defense also formally requested the annulment of the charges, claiming the prosecution lacked clarity in explaining the alleged crimes and the co-authorship among the accused.