Colombia: Legal dispute over Álvaro Uribe investigation and probe into Óscar Benavides

In Colombia, a legal dispute has emerged regarding the jurisdiction responsible for investigating former President Álvaro Uribe Vélez concerning the El Aro and La Granja massacres. The Fiscalía General de la Nación has declared itself competent to lead the investigation, asserting that the crimes occurred between 1996 and 1998 while Uribe was Governor of Antioquia, rather than during his presidency. This decision rejects a request from the House Commission of Investigation and Accusation to take over the case.

The attempt by the Commission to claim jurisdiction caused internal friction within the Pacto Histórico party. Five representatives initially voted to transfer the case to the legislative body, leading to public criticism and internal calls for clarification. The party later issued a statement clarifying that their position was based on a legal debate regarding procedural competence rather than an attempt to grant impunity.

Separately, the Colombian Supreme Court of Justice has opened a preliminary investigation into Representative Óscar Benavides. The inquiry focuses on the alleged irregular collection and management of approximately $300 million in donations intended for earthquake victims in the Chocó department. The investigation is examining potential crimes including massive and habitual collection of money and usurpation of public functions.