Former Colombian President Gustavo Petro formally notified the Senate of the Republic of his departure from the country to Mexico City, where he will remain from August 30 to September 2, 2026.
This trip represents his first international journey since his presidential term ended earlier this year.
The notification was submitted through an official communication addressed to the president of the chamber, Honorio Henríquez, in compliance with legal provisions requiring former presidents to report their travel outside the country during the year following the conclusion of their term.
In the letter sent to the Senate leadership, the former president detailed the reason for and itinerary of his trip: “I respectfully inform you that I will leave the national territory on August 30, 2026, bound for Mexico City, and return on September 2, 2026, in order to participate in an academic event.”
Although the institution or organization hosting the event in the Mexican capital was not specified, the prior authorization for Petro’s trip had already been approved by the Senate on August 12.
Political debate over the travel authorization
The authorization for Petro’s trip generated divided positions within Colombian politics.
Opposition sectors, led by groups such as Salvación Nacional, the political organization that supported current President Abelardo de la Espriella, questioned the approval of the authorization, arguing that there are pending investigations before the House of Representatives’ Commission of Accusations.
On the other hand, legislators from various political factions, including sectors of Uribismo, supported the authorization, recalling that there is no judicial prohibition or restriction on the former president’s freedom of movement.
Those who supported the measure emphasized respect for due process and the presumption of innocence, thereby allowing Petro to fulfill his commitments abroad in accordance with the current legal framework.
Source: telesurtv
