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Colombian President Petro Faces Scrutiny Over Portugal nightclub Spending
BOGOTÁ, Colombia – Colombian President Gustavo Petro is facing criticism after financial records revealed spending at a Lisbon nightclub during a recent private trip to Portugal.Reports indicate Petro spent approximately €13,000 (roughly $14,000 USD) at the nightclub during the visit, sparking debate over the appropriateness of the expenditure amidst ongoing economic challenges within Colombia.
The controversy comes as Petro’s governance navigates complex economic reforms and faces scrutiny over its handling of social programs. While presidential trips often involve security and logistical costs, the nature of the spending has drawn fire from opposition figures and raised questions about clarity. This incident adds to a series of recent challenges for Petro, including a court order requiring him to apologize for disparaging remarks made towards journalists and escalating diplomatic tensions with the United States.
Details of the spending emerged following a request for data from opposition Senator María Fernanda Cabal, who shared images of the receipts on social media. The receipts reportedly show charges for alcohol and other services at the Lisbon nightclub during Petro’s visit in late February.
Petro has defended the expenditure, stating the costs where related to security details accompanying him on the trip and were not personal expenses. He further asserted that the security team required a secure location for monitoring and coordination during his time in lisbon.
The incident occurs against a backdrop of strained relations between Colombia and the U.S. sence President trump took office, diplomatic conflicts have escalated, including accusations from Trump labeling Petro a “drug trafficking kingpin” without providing evidence, and the subsequent withdrawal of Colombia’s designation as a key partner in the fight against narcotics.Additionally, Colombia’s Constitutional Court recently ordered Petro to apologize for “stigmatizing” comments and for referring to female journalists who question him as “mafia puppets” and “powerful journalists.”
