Colombia: Alleged ‘Mariposas amarillas’ influence network linked to Gustavo Petro

A political scandal involving an alleged influence-peddling network, referred to as ‘Mariposas amarillas’ (yellow butterflies), has emerged in Colombia. The allegations suggest that a circle of young women close to former President Gustavo Petro used their proximity to power to influence state appointments and secure lucrative public contracts.

Former Director of the Administrative Department of the Presidency (DAPRE), Angie Rodríguez, has publicly claimed that with Petro’s approval, significant benefits were granted to women in his inner circle, specifically naming activist Juliana Guerrero and content creator Gabriela Muñoz. Additionally, investigative reports have identified María Masip Zawady as a person allegedly involved in the network, with claims that she increased her personal wealth through state contracts.