On Sunday, the president called for the resignation of ministers and other senior officials. Petro’s attack on his team was followed by the move as tensions rose after the incident, while some government officials have condemned recent appointments.
On the social media platform X, Petro wrote, “There will be some changes in the cabinet to ensure greater compliance with the program ordered by the people.”
Gloria Ramirez, the minister of labor, resigned on the social media platform X shortly after her announcement.
“Politics must proceed without sectarianism and without ambiguities”, she said.
Building tension
Since Petro appointed some new ministers, there has been an increase in tension within the government.
Some in the cabinet have protested, expressing disapproval over the appointment of Laura Sarabia, Petro’s scandal-hit former chief of staff, as foreign minister.
Petro and US President Donald Trump had a standoff over migrant deportation flights when they were appointed last month.
Sarabia has been a part of an investigation into corruption and a alleged illegal wiretapping case.
The conflict only grew worse when Petro staged a five-hour dressing-down for the cabinet in front of state TV last week.
He accused several officials, including his trade, education and health ministers, of falling behind on the delivery of key projects.
‘ False stories ‘
Susana Muhamad resigned as environment minister shortly before the president’s request to resign because she opposed Armando Benedetti’s appointment.
Several other ministers have also complained about the appointment, with , Benedetti facing allegations of violence against women and influence peddling.
A key aide to Petro, Benedetti , has said false stories were being told about him.
Source: Aljazeera
Leave a Reply