Colombia's Finance Minister Faces Corruption Probe Amid Government Scandal

Colombia's finance minister, Ricardo Bonilla, committed to a rapid investigation into corruption allegations involving several officials in President Gustavo Petro's government. The scandal implicates Colombia's UNGRD disaster agency in bribing Congress members for legislative support. Bonilla maintains his innocence and pledges full cooperation with legal proceedings.

Colombia's Finance Minister, Ricardo Bonilla, stated on Friday that he is dedicated to swiftly investigating corruption allegations against him. These accusations involve several officials within President Gustavo Petro's administration.

Bonilla has been linked to a scandal surrounding Colombia's UNGRD disaster agency, which allegedly bribed Congress members to secure votes for government reforms. In response to a local journalist's post on X, Bonilla assured that his legal team is working tirelessly to clarify all necessary aspects. He also mentioned the initial evidence would be handed over to the attorney general's office next week.

Earlier this week, Bonilla proclaimed his innocence on X, expressing his willingness to face any official examination respecting justice. In May, the Supreme Court summoned former Interior Minister Luis Fernando Velasco to testify in a related case involving former UNGRD officials Olmedo Lopez and Sneyder Pinilla, who are cooperating in exchange for immunity and protection.

(With inputs from agencies.)