San Andrés faces political shifts and corruption investigations

In San Andrés, former Interior Minister Juan Fernando Cristo is working to consolidate the En Marcha political party ahead of the October 2027 territorial elections. During his visit to the archipelago, Cristo expressed a commitment to addressing regional needs and reducing centralism from Bogotá, specifically focusing on the development of Afro-descendant, indigenous, and Raizal communities. He also signaled political support for Jackeline Howard in her pursuit of the governorship.

Separately, the Attorney General's Office has filed formal charges against former governor Everth Julio Hawkins Sjögren. The investigation involves the alleged misappropriation of 4,330 million pesos related to an urban improvement contract for Haynes Cay. Hawkins is accused of contracting an entity that lacked the necessary technical capacity and bypassing legal bidding requirements. The project reportedly proceeded without required environmental or maritime licenses, resulting in the construction of structures that are now at risk of demolition.