Former Senate President Lidio García urged President Gustavo Petro and President-elect Abelardo de la Espriña to protect Colombian democracy during the installation of the new Congress in Bogotá [1].

The appeal comes at a critical moment for the nation's political stability. As Colombia transitions between leadership and opens a new legislative session, the call for institutional respect aims to prevent political polarization from undermining the balance of power.

García said that both leaders must respect the institutional framework and maintain a productive dialogue despite their deep political differences [1]. He said that safeguarding the democracy and the equilibrium between institutional powers is necessary for the country's future [1].

The installation of the new Congress serves as the primary venue for setting the legislative agenda for the coming term. By addressing both the current president and the president-elect, García highlighted the need for a cohesive transition of power, a move intended to ensure that government functions remain stable regardless of which party holds the executive office [1].

This plea for stability follows separate calls for vigilance regarding the military's role in civic stability. Other reports indicate that De la Espriña previously called upon the military forces to defend democracy on Aug. 7 [2].

García's remarks focus on the necessity of prioritizing Colombia over individual political ambitions. He said that the protection of democratic norms is the only way to ensure the legitimacy of the state's institutions [1].

“Lidio García urged President Gustavo Petro and President-elect Abelardo de la Espriña to protect Colombian democracy.”

The public appeal by a former legislative leader reflects an effort to create a 'democratic guardrail' during a high-tension leadership transition. By urging the current president and the president-elect to prioritize institutionalism over partisan conflict, García is attempting to signal to both the legislative body and the military that the preservation of the constitutional order must supersede political rivalry.