A bombshell allegation from former Foreign Minister Álvaro Leyva has plunged Colombia into political turmoil, with the 82-year-old statesman publicly accusing President Gustavo Petro of drug addiction in a scathing open letter. The claims—vehemently denied by the leftist leader—have sparked calls for mandatory drug testing and raised questions about governance in the world’s top cocaine-producing nation.
Explosive Allegations:
- Leyva claims Petro disappeared for two days during 2023 Paris visit, suggesting drug use
- References “embarrassing moments” as foreign minister but provides no evidence
- Opposition demands immediate psychiatric and drug evaluations for the president
Petro’s Fiery Rebuttal:
The president dismissed the claims as “slander” on social media platform X, asserting French security services would have documented any irregularities during his official visit. “I was with my Paris-based family—my true addiction is love,” Petro stated, while mocking Leyva’s credibility. The leader pointed to cultural attractions and family visits as his Parisian priorities rather than ministerial meetings.
Political Fallout:
The accusation strikes at longstanding rumors about Petro’s behavior:
- Acknowledged attending 2018 campaign event while intoxicated
- Frequent unexplained tardiness to official functions
- Controversial claims that whiskey is deadlier than cocaine
- Cocaine production has surged 22% under his administration
Leyva, a conservative-turned-Petro ally until his 2024 suspension over a passport contract scandal, has increasingly criticized his former boss. The timing raises eyebrows as Colombia prepares for contentious local elections amid rising drug-related violence.
What’s Next?
- Opposition lawmakers drafting legislation to mandate presidential drug testing
- Petro’s “addicted to love” quip trends globally on social media
- International observers monitor stability in key US counter-narcotics partner
As the war of words escalates, Colombians are left weighing serious questions about their leader’s fitness for office against what many see as a politically motivated attack from a disgruntled former insider. With cocaine production at record highs and peace negotiations with armed groups stalling, this scandal threatens to further destabilize a nation already grappling with multiple crises.
Statements Resonating:
“Either prove your sobriety or resign—Colombians deserve transparency.”
— María Fernanda Cabal, opposition senator
“These are the desperate lies of those who can’t accept progressive change.”
— Petro supporter’s tweet trending in Bogotá
