Colombia's Ex-President Álvaro Uribe Acquitted, Boosts Right-Wing Election Campaign

Álvaro Uribe Vélez, former president of Colombia, has demonstrated remarkable political resilience despite facing legal challenges, including a 12-year house arrest sentence for witness tampering and procedural fraud that was overturned on appeal, reviving his political influence. Known for his 'Teflon effect' during his presidency from 2002 to 2010, Uribe maintained popularity despite scandals and continued to play a decisive role in Colombian politics, with his U party remaining influential. His political career experienced setbacks, such as the 2009 Constitutional Court decision preventing a third presidential term, but he managed to shape Colombian politics significantly, including supporting Juan Manuel Santos, his former defense minister. Uribe's acquittal has sparked mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a failure of justice for the powerful and others as a victory for a prominent political figure. This ongoing political saga highlights the complexities of Colombia's political landscape and the enduring presence of Uribe's influence ahead of upcoming elections.