President Gustavo Petro targeted by suspension push from congresswoman Gloria Arizabaleta

Congresswoman Gloria Arizabaleta, president of the Commission of Accusations, signed an order to suspend President Gustavo Petro provisionally until 21 June, citing a possible involvement in politics during the presidential campaign. Legal experts noted that the commission lacks the authority to suspend the head of state; such action requires a full congressional vote and Senate approval.

The Prosecutor General’s Office subsequently suspended Arizabaleta for ten days and barred her from serving as a legislator until July 2026, opening a disciplinary investigation for attempting to suspend the president without competence. Petro denounced the move as “extortion,” while other campaign issues, such as debates over dual nationality, continue to polarise the electorate ahead of the runoff.

The episode has heightened political tension in Colombia, prompting scrutiny from national and international observers of the country’s democratic process.