Petro’s son accused of receiving drug money for his father’s campaign
Nicolas Petro, a congressman in Colombia and son of the country’s president, Gustavo Petro, has been accused by his ex-wife, Day Vasquez, of receiving funds from drug trafficker Samuel Santander Lopesierra, also known as “El Hombre Marlboro,” for his father’s presidential campaign. However, the money never reached its intended destination.
In an interview with Semana magazine, Vasquez claimed that “El Hombre Marlboro” gave more than 600 million Colombian pesos (around $124,700 USD) to Nicolas Petro for his father’s campaign, but the money never legally made it to the campaign because he kept it for himself.
Vasquez also mentioned that Nicolas Petro received 200 million Colombian pesos (around $41,500 USD) from businessman Alfonso “Turco” Hilsaca, which also did not go to the campaign.
These allegations come hours after President Petro released a statement requesting that the Attorney General investigate his brother Juan Fernando and Nicolas, his eldest son, without giving further details.
The president referred to alleged meetings in prisons where people in his circle would pose as government officials to contact criminals and offer them inclusion in the “total peace” program in exchange for money, a suspicion that falls on his brother but has not been linked to his son.
In response to the accusations, Nicolas Petro issued a statement denying any contact with “El Hombre Marlboro” or “Turco” Hilsaca, both of whom he claims not to know. He stated that he has not received any direct or indirect support from these individuals and requested an investigation to clarify and protect his honor and reputation.
This situation is a blow to President Petro, who has been one of the most vocal critics of corruption and the drug trade in Colombia. The allegations against his son come at a time when his administration is already facing several challenges, including ongoing protests and criticism over its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
It remains to be seen whether the accusations will be proven true, but the situation underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in politics, particularly when it comes to the use of campaign funds. It is essential to investigate any allegations of corruption thoroughly to preserve the integrity of the democratic process and maintain public trust in government institutions.
