Yennifer Yepes defends personal sacrifice in public service

Palmira councilwoman Yennifer Yepes Gutiérrez has sparked a political debate regarding the personal sacrifices required of elected officials. Her comments followed criticisms from leader Alejandro Villanueva, who had questioned the Minister of Housing regarding a trip to Santa Marta and the blending of official duties with family time.

In response, Yepes shifted the focus to her local experience in Palmira, citing her service during the pandemic and the social unrest period. She argued that public service demands constant attention to community needs, stating, ‘The price of loving the public is to set many things aside and build a city.’ Her remarks have ignited a discussion on whether officials should maintain permanent availability or if they are entitled to preserve personal and family life.