Colombia: Amazon environmental protections revoked and state appointments scrutinized

Colombia’s Ministry of Environment, led by Fabio Arjona, has revoked Resolution 961, which previously designated the Amazon biome as a definitive reserve of renewable natural resources. The revoked measure, issued just two days before the end of Gustavo Petro’s administration, prohibited new mining and oil activities across 42% of the country. Minister Arjona stated the decision was made because the previous resolution lacked prior consultation with Afro-descendant communities and did not sufficiently guarantee regional protection. Reports suggest the resolution had been an obstacle to the Libero Cobre project in Mocoa.

In separate developments, an analysis of 68 state-owned enterprises revealed significant political appointments. Data indicates that 22 individuals with personal or political ties to President Abelardo De la Espriella or Finance Minister Miguel Gómez Martínez have secured positions on boards or presidencies. This personal circle now occupies 20% of these roles, compared to 8% during the Petro administration.

Additionally, the Prosecutor's Office announced it will charge Hollman Morris, former manager of RTVC, with alleged sexual violence against journalist María Antonia García regarding an incident in 2011. The hearing is scheduled for November 17. Meanwhile, National Registrar Hernán Penagos has reportedly received death threats originating from a prison.