President Gustavo Petro delivered a speech at the Capitolio Nacional in Bogotá to mark the official installation of the new Congress [1].
The address served as a critical bridge for the administration to present its record and define legislative priorities for the 2025-2026 congressional term [2].
Petro spoke for approximately two hours [1]. During the session, the president reviewed the achievements of his administration and addressed the political figures and opposition members present in the hall. The event took place on July 20, 2024 [1].
The proceedings were not without tension. At one point, Petro paused his remarks due to disruptions from the audience. "Tanto alarido junto es mejor callarlo," Petro said [3].
Reports from the session also noted lapses in attention among high-ranking officials. Foreign Minister Rosa Villavicencio was reported to have fallen asleep during the extended address [1].
Additionally, some of the president's remarks drew attention for their unconventional nature. In a separate instance highlighted by media reports, Petro said, "Hago cosas muy buenas en la cama" [4].
The installation of the 2025-2026 Congress marks a pivotal moment for the outgoing president to secure his legacy and push through remaining legislative goals before his term concludes [2].
“"Tanto alarido junto es mejor callarlo"”
The length and tone of the address, combined with the visible friction between the executive and legislative branches, underscore the polarized political climate in Colombia. By utilizing the installation of the 2025-2026 Congress to both defend his record and clash with opponents, Petro is attempting to maintain momentum for his policy agenda despite a dwindling window of time before he leaves office.
