Former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe issued warnings to President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella regarding the protection of the Centro Democrático party.

This tension emerges during a critical dispute over the presidencies of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The conflict signals a potential rift within the right-wing political establishment as they navigate legislative power in Bogotá.

Uribe expressed concerns that the party could be targeted by political opponents or internal maneuvers. He specifically cautioned against what he described as “trampas del petro‑chavismo” [3], referring to the influence of the left-wing administration. Uribe said that if the intention is to destroy the Centro Democrático, his allies must defend themselves [2].

In a metaphor describing the political climate, Uribe said, “Si el tigre va a rugir contra nosotros, como abejas, toca defendernos” [1].

The friction occurs as the National Electoral Council (CNE) prepares to finalize the leadership transition. The CNE was expected to proclaim Abelardo de la Espriella as president by the afternoon of June 24 or the morning of June 25, 2024 [4].

Uribe's remarks highlight a broader struggle for control within the Colombian Congress. He indicated that the party cannot allow further manipulation by the left, suggesting that the legislative process is currently vulnerable to strategic traps [3].

While De la Espriella has secured the presidency, the relationship between the new leader and the established power base of the Centro Democrático remains strained. Uribe said the need for defense is paramount if the party's existence is threatened [2].

“"Si busca acabar con el Centro Democrático, nos toca defendernos"”

The public friction between Uribe and De la Espriella suggests that the Colombian right is not a monolithic bloc. By framing the struggle as a defense against 'petro-chavismo,' Uribe is attempting to maintain his influence over the Centro Democrático while signaling to the President-elect that the party's legacy and structure are non-negotiable assets in the legislative battle for the Senate and House presidencies.