Colombia's government files criminal complaint against Carlos Alonso Lucio

The Colombian government, led by President Gustavo Petro, filed a criminal complaint against Carlos Alonso Lucio, a close aide to president‑elect Abelardo De La Espriella. The complaint, presented by Finance Minister Germán Ávila, alleges that Lucio’s statements on the social platform X insulted the honor and reputation of President Petro and his administration.

The action was taken amid the suspension of the joint transition (empalme) tables between the outgoing and incoming governments. The government also asked the Attorney General’s Office and the Comptroller General to oversee the process, emphasizing that the transition must remain a technical, institutional exercise, not a venue for political accusations. Lucio had previously accused Petro of delinquencing and called for impeachment, intensifying the political confrontation.

The filing adds a judicial dimension to the escalating dispute over the presidential transition, raising concerns about the stability of the handover and the broader political climate in Colombia.