Former Colombian President Gustavo Petro Under Investigation for Corruption Allegations
Supreme Court investigates claims of public contracts exchanged for sexual favors by Petro.
1Supreme Court Investigation Launched
The Colombian Supreme Court confirmed on November 7, 2026, that an investigation into former President Gustavo Petro is underway. The inquiry follows a formal complaint alleging that Petro granted public contracts in exchange for sexual relations. The court is currently reviewing evidence spanning his time as a parliamentarian and his presidency.
2Scope of Alleged Misconduct
A woman filed the complaint, claiming that she and approximately thirty other individuals received government contracts through these illicit exchanges. Judge Mauricio Lenis, president of the Supreme Court, stated that the investigation will focus on acts with criminal relevance. These proceedings are currently protected by strict judicial secrecy during the initial phase.
3Viral Evidence and Denials
Public scrutiny intensified after a video featuring former service provider Deicy Jiménez and Petro surfaced online. The footage shows the two individuals in an intimate setting, which has since gone viral. Petro has publicly rejected all allegations on social media, asserting that he never used state contracts to obtain personal favors.
4Political Context and Defense
Petro, who served as president from 2022 to 2026, currently leads the opposition against the current administration of Abelardo de la Espriella. He maintains that these accusations are part of a coordinated political strategy orchestrated by his adversaries. He has pledged to cooperate fully and appear before the judges without any delay.
5Family and Public Reaction
Antonella and Sofía Petro, the former president's daughters, issued a statement regarding the ongoing situation. They urged the public to refrain from harassing the alleged victims while expressing confidence in their father's legal defense. They emphasized their belief that the judicial process will clarify the truth regarding these serious public allegations.
6Historical Pattern of Controversy
This is not the first time Petro has faced criticism regarding his behavior toward women. In previous instances, he sparked significant controversy by referring to a group of female journalists as mafia dolls. These past incidents have resurfaced in public discourse, adding layers of scrutiny to his current legal and political challenges.
7Judicial Process and Transparency
The Supreme Court is working in conjunction with the prosecutor's office to determine the extent of the alleged corruption. Officials have indicated that only findings with clear criminal relevance will be made public. The investigation remains a high-profile matter, given Petro's long career as a parliamentarian starting in the year 1991.
8Implications for Colombian Politics
The investigation marks a critical moment for the Colombian political landscape, pitting a former leader against the judiciary. As the case progresses, the focus remains on whether the evidence can substantiate the claims of systemic corruption. The outcome will likely impact the future of the opposition movement led by Petro today.