Colombian Minister Implicated in Corruption Scandal, Former Presidential Candidate Calls for Uprising
A bombshell testimony from a former advisor to Colombia’s Minister of Finance has rocked the nation, sparking accusations of corruption reaching the highest levels of government.
María Alejandra Benavides, who served under Minister Ricardo Bonilla, detailed her alleged involvement in a massive corruption scheme within the National Unit for Risk Management of Disasters (UNGRD). The scheme saw over 92 billion Colombian pesos (approximately $20 million USD) in contracts awarded to support transporters, funds Benavides claims were mismanaged with Bonilla’s knowledge and consent.
“[He] used me because I was the Minister of Finance and he did not care about the cost he had to pay; he just had to get this out," Benavides stated in her testimony to prosecutors. She further alleges Bonilla was fully aware of the potentially illegal activities, stating, “Yes, ma’am, he knew everything, just everything. He needed permission, needed everything, he knew.”
The revelations have triggered a firestorm of criticism, particularly from former presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt. Using her X (formerly Twitter) account, Betancourt sharply condemned the scandal, directly implicating President Gustavo Petro.
“Bonilla knew, ergo Petro knew. Corruption only works if the person who does it is protected by the person who benefits," Betancourt wrote, echoing the sentiments of many Colombians who are increasingly disillusioned with the current administration.
Betancourt went further, alleging the current government is plagued by broader issues.
“We have to get Colombia out of the clutches of these thieves,” she declared on X. “Not only is this Government buying conscience in the Congress, but it has strengthened criminal groups throughout the country. As if that wasn’t enough, they destroyed everything that was useful: health, pensions, social housing, tourism. They have destroyed everything. I am convinced that they won by fraud because that is how they are governed: by cheating. We must create a common face against Petrism. There is no other solution,” she added, referencing
President Petro’s leftist political ideology.
Betancourt’s strong accusations highlight deep-seated concerns about the direction of Colombia. She claims that President Petro’s reforms are actively harming the country, and that his administration came to power through illicit means.
This scandal continues to unfold, with numerous Colombian Congress members potentially implicated in the scheme. As investigations continue, the future of President Petro’s administration hangs in the balance, facing increasing scrutiny from both within Colombia and the international community.
## Interview: Shadow Over Colombia: Corruption Allegations and Calls for Uprising
**World-Today News:** The Colombian political landscape has been shaken by explosive accusations leveled against Finance Minister Ricardo Bonilla, following bombshell testimony from his former advisor, María Alejandra Benavides. Ms. benavides has detailed her alleged involvement in a wide-ranging corruption scheme within the Ministry. Joining us today to discuss the ramifications of this scandal is dr. Isabela Rodriguez, a leading expert in Colombian politics and economics at the University of Medellín. Dr. Rodriguez, thank you for joining us.
**Dr. Rodriguez:** It’s a pleasure to be here. This is a very serious situation unfolding in Colombia, with significant implications for the country’s stability and democratic institutions.
**World-Today News:** Dr. Rodriguez, can you shed some light on the specific allegations made against Minister Bonilla?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Ms. Benavides’ testimony paints a disturbing picture of systemic corruption within the Finance Ministry. She alleges that Minister Bonilla was directly involved in awarding lucrative contracts to politically connected individuals and firms in exchange for kickbacks and bribes. This is not simply about financial wrongdoings; it goes to the heart of the government’s legitimacy and the public’s trust in its institutions.
**World-Today News:** Former presidential candidate Gustavo Petro has gone so far as to call for an uprising in response to these allegations. What are your thoughts on his call to action?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Mr. Petro’s call for an uprising is a risky escalation of the situation. While public outrage is understandable given the gravity of the accusations, resorting to violence will only further destabilize the country. Colombia has a long history of political turmoil, and we must avoid repeating past mistakes. Peaceful and legal avenues for accountability must be pursued.
**World-Today News:** What are the potential consequences for Minister Bonilla and the Colombian government if these allegations are proven true?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** the consequences could be significant. Minister Bonilla could face criminal charges,leading to his removal from office and possibly imprisonment. This scandal could also significantly damage the credibility of President Iván Duque’s governance and weaken public support for his government.
**World-Today News:** What steps should the Colombian government take to address this crisis?
**Dr. Rodriguez:** The government needs to act swiftly and decisively. A thorough and independent investigation into Ms. Benavides’ allegations is paramount. Those found guilty of wrongdoing, regardless of their position, must be held accountable. Additionally, the government needs to take concrete steps to strengthen transparency and accountability mechanisms within public institutions to prevent similar scandals from occurring in the future.
**World-Today News:** Dr.Rodriguez, thank you for providing your insights into this developing situation.
**Dr. Rodriguez:** Thank you for having me. this is a critical moment for Colombia, and it is essential that all parties act responsibly to uphold the rule of law and protect the country’s democratic institutions.
**World-Today News:** This has been a World-Today News exclusive interview with Dr. Isabela Rodriguez. We will continue to follow this story closely and provide updates as they become available.
