On March 2, 2025, Armando Benedetti officially began his tenure as Colombia's new Minister of Interior amid significant controversy. The appointment follows accusations of previous misconduct, including allegations of abuse and corruption, which have cast doubts over his capacity to effectively manage the country's interior affairs.
The political storm surrounding Benedetti intensified after it was revealed he had exchanged messages with Congresswoman Katherine Miranda from the Alianza Verde party, where she advised him against greeting her during his visit to Congress on February 25. This timing was particularly sensitive after she signed a letter opposing his appointment initiated by President Gustavo Petro.
According to reports from El Espectador, the direct message exchange has caused substantial backlash, especially from government supporters who view Miranda, known for her advocacy on women’s rights, as hypocritical for her stance against Benedetti. President Petro wasted no time using this incident to critique Miranda, accusing her of betraying the progressive ideals she initially championed to gain votes for her congressional seat.
Petro took to social media to express his dissatisfaction, stating, "My personal experience with the right-wing faction of Bogotá disguised as progressives to get votes can be summarized in few words: I have never found such a treacherous and opportunistic political group." His sharp criticism reflects wider frustrations with perceived disloyalty within his political party.
Adding to the turmoil, Senator Ariel Ávila, president of the Senate's First Commission, described Benedetti's forthcoming role as a "viacrucis," or trial, indicating significant difficulties due to legislative stagnation, especially with the upcoming election calendar pressing on political dynamics. "It will be very difficult for him (Benedetti) because Congress is already focused on electoral issues, the presidential campaign for 2026 is coming, and this will not be easy," Ávila expressed during comments to LA FM.
Despite the challenges, Benedetti does have his supporters within Congress, though many view his nomination as lacking justification. His past controversies, including the scandal popularly referred to as “Papá Pitufo,” have not gone unnoticed, feeding skepticism among certain factions about his ability to maintain stability within the ministry.
Cielo Rusinque, head of the Superintendence of Industry and Commerce, also criticized the political discourse surrounding these issues, saying, "Miranda, like many who have entered politics, have instrumentalized and distorted theories like feminism, merely for votes and popularity ... it's the typical demagogic attitude, now called populist." This statement adds another layer to the backlash against Miranda's initial collaboration with Benedetti.
Faced with growing criticism, Miranda responded by clarifying her position on Benedetti. Although she acknowledged their previous professional collaboration, she firmly stated her opposition to his new role, emphasizing her commitment to women's rights. "I have known Benedetti for several years; I have worked with him on several projects. It would be inconsistent not to condemn the supposed gender violence just because I know him," she clarified on social media. This nuanced stance showcases the complex dynamics at play within Colombian politics.
The events following Benedetti's appointment signal significant shifts within Colombia's political sphere, highlighting deep-seated divisions and the challenges faced by current government officials as they navigate their reform agendas. With criticism from both within the government and across party lines, Benedetti's effectiveness as Minister of Interior remains uncertain.
Analysts warn of potential gridlock as the Congress grapples with its pre-election climate, which could impede key legislative reforms proposed by Benedetti and supported by President Petro's administration. With relationships strained and accusations of betrayal becoming commonplace, the coming weeks will serve as a significant test for Benedetti's leadership.
Questions linger about the efficacy of the current government's agenda, especially concerning the health reform initiatives which have faced severe delays, and with Benedetti at the helm, the path forward appears fraught with challenges. The surrounding controversy will undoubtedly influence not just the legislative process but also public sentiment as the Colombian political scene evolves.