Colombia’s former president Álvaro Uribe has been convicted in an historic trial, becoming the first ex-head of state to face a criminal conviction in the country. The charge: manipulating witness testimonies in a long-running political dispute.
In 2012, Uribe alleged that Senator Iván Cepeda fabricated ties between him and right-wing militias. The Supreme Court dismissed the accusation and instead began investigating Uribe, uncovering attempts to interfere with witness accounts.
Testimony from a former paramilitary—who confirmed contact from Uribe—formed a crucial part of the prosecution’s case. Despite Uribe’s denial, the court ruled that his actions were deliberate and aimed at obstructing justice.
This landmark conviction has sent shockwaves through Colombia’s political elite, raising questions about the future of conservatism in the country and the durability of democratic institutions.