Luz Adriana Camargo named attorney general after a month of public demonstrations
After a month marked by deliberations and public demonstrations, Colombia’s Supreme Court has appointed Luz Adriana Camargo as the new attorney general.
- 8 months ago
March 23, 2024
Riot police in full gear stand at the ready in a subway station in Colombia. | Photo courtesy of Camilo Vargas
BOGOTA, Colombia — The pursuit of justice in Colombia reached a pivotal moment with the Supreme Court’s duty to elect a new attorney general. Following intense nationwide interest and a month of public demonstrations, the Supreme Court named Luz Adriana Camargo attorney general. Camargo earned the votes of 18 out of 23 judges, surpassing the two-thirds majority required for ratification.
During the selection process, the magistrates met four times, voting to find the right candidate among President Petro’s three nominees. None, however, initially achieved the 16-vote threshold. Camargo’s eventual election comes despite concerns from Petro’s supporters regarding the election’s integrity.
The decision unfolded under the watchful eyes of Petro’s supporters, who raised concerns about potential stalling in the nomination process.
However, the prosecutor’s office in Colombia has been embroiled in controversy since Francisco Barbosa’s departure on February 12. His deputy, Martha Mancera, faced scrutiny over alleged drug trafficking ties. The situation escalated when Francisco Javier Martinez was arrested during a court vote, deepening the scandal. Recent journalistic investigations suggest Mancera may have tried to hide these connections.
Above, a woman participated in an indigenous ritual, invoking ancestral wisdom and guidance in a time of political and social upheaval.
A demonstrator holds a sign mocking the outgoing prosecutor. The signs highlight the public’s demand for an end to impunity and the beginning of a new era of judicial integrity.
Man slumped against a backdrop of political slogans, showing the frustration over the election and its controversies.
Protesters gather in Colombia as the country’s highest court struggles to elect a new attorney general
With voices raised and flags waved, the activity taking place in Colombia reveals the high stakes of the Supreme Court’s decision and its impact on Colombia’s future.
Riot police stand in formation. Their presence is a stark contrast to the civilian calls for justice and transparency in the halls of power.
An activist embodies the public’s demands to have a say in the choice of their new judicial guardian.
A protester dons a mask of President Gustavo Petro, symbolizing the public’s watchful eye on the president’s promise not to interfere with the prosecutor’s election.
Tension was visible on the faces of police as they listened to protesters; a reflection of the country’s deep divide and the pressing need for a resolution that heals and unites.
All photos courtesy of Camilo Vargas.
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