The shadow of corruption on Mompox: charges to ex-mayor and ex-secretary for unfinished works of the Magdalena River

The former mayor of Mompox, Guillermo Arturo Santos Anaya, and his former secretary of planning, Enrique Vanstrahlen Valest, have been formally charged with alleged misconduct related to a $7.3 billion contract aimed at protecting six rural districts and the city center from flooding along the Magdalena River. The charges were issued by the Public Prosecutor’s Office, which has initiated an investigation into potential irregularities in the execution of key infrastructure projects designed to mitigate disaster risks in the region. The project, which was meant to construct three retaining walls, known locally as jarillones, was intended to prevent the river's encroachment and reduce flood damage in both urban and rural areas of Mompox. The affected communities include San Ignacio, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, Travesía, Bomba, and La Lobata. These areas remain vulnerable during winter months when the river swells and threatens local populations living along its banks. According to preliminary findings by the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the two officials failed to exercise proper oversight and supervision over the contractors responsible for carrying out the works. The investigation revealed serious deficiencies in both the quantity of work completed and adherence to technical specifications outlined at the start of the public procurement process. These shortcomings compromised the effectiveness of the retaining structures and raised concerns about how public funds were allocated and used. The charges against Santos Anaya and Vanstrahlen Valest highlight violations of principles of economic efficiency and accountability in public service. Specifically, they are accused of failing to implement rigorous monitoring and control mechanisms throughout the project’s execution. Additionally, they are alleged to have neglected their duty to ensure the proper functioning of oversight systems, which are essential for maintaining the quality and integrity of such large-scale infrastructure initiatives. The Public Prosecutor’s Office described the actions attributed to the two officials as a grave offense committed through negligence. If confirmed, these allegations could result in severe disciplinary measures, including restrictions on holding public office. The legal proceedings are currently underway within the framework of administrative discipline, and the outcome will determine whether the officials face further consequences. Meanwhile, residents in the six affected districts continue to monitor the progress of the infrastructure, concerned about whether the costly investment will truly provide the protection promised. The failure to meet basic standards of construction and oversight has left many questioning the reliability of the project and the transparency of its management. This case underscores ongoing challenges in ensuring accountability and effective governance in public works, particularly in regions prone to environmental threats. As the legal process unfolds, the community awaits clarity on whether the infrastructure will deliver the safety and stability it was designed to offer.