Wilson Ruiz, former Minister of Justice, has filed a constitutional action known as a tutela to block the removal of Angie Rodríguez from her position as head of the Adaptation Fund. The lawsuit was submitted against the Presidency of the Republic and the Ministry of Finance, with the aim of temporarily invalidating the decree that declared Rodríguez’s appointment as insubsistent. According to the legal documents, the move is based on allegations of discrimination due to her health condition. Rodríguez, who has been under psychiatric treatment for a diagnosis of mixed anxiety and depression, claims that the decision violates her fundamental rights and poses a risk to her continued access to medical care. The tutelage requests a temporary suspension of the effects of the decree declaring Rodríguez's appointment as insubsistent, ensuring she remains affiliated with the state social security system and continues receiving necessary healthcare services. The legal team argues that without this measure, Rodríguez could lose her status as a contributor, which would affect her eligibility for benefits from the Risk Management Company (ARL). The document also references the Constitutional Court’s precedent that emergency measures are justified when there is an irreparable harm, which they claim applies here given the nature of Rodríguez’s health condition. Rodríguez, who previously served as the President’s right-hand woman in the Department of Administrative Planning (Dapre), has become one of his most vocal critics. She has accused the administration of corruption and has raised concerns over the allocation of more than $1 billion intended for projects in the La Mojana region. Her statements have led to her being removed from her post by President Gustavo Petro, who described her as “a liar” and announced plans to file criminal charges against her. He also cited her mental health issues as grounds for her dismissal, a claim that has drawn criticism from medical professionals and political figures alike. In response, Rodríguez’s defense team has presented evidence of alleged political persecution, workplace harassment, and gender-based violence by government officials seeking to prevent her from fulfilling her duties. They cite multiple incidents, including threats against her and her family, and a campaign of online abuse and defamation. Additionally, they allege that internal groups within the administration attempted to remove her from her position to gain control over contracts. Five witnesses reportedly support these claims, stating that substances were supplied at work, leading to deterioration in her physical and mental health. The legal action comes after Rodríguez filed a formal complaint against Petro before the Chamber of Investigation and Accusation, alleging around 16 potential crimes, including money laundering and embezzlement. Her lawyers, including Wilson Ruiz and Manuel Villanueva, have aligned themselves with opposition figures such as Rodrigo Lara, the incoming Interior Minister. The case highlights the growing tensions within the administration, particularly as the government nears the end of its term and faces increasing scrutiny over financial management and ethical conduct. Petro’s response to the legal challenge included a public accusation that Ruiz had bought votes during his congressional campaign. In a message posted on X, he directly questioned whether the lawyer had violated electoral laws. Ruiz swiftly denied the allegations, emphasizing his long-standing reputation for integrity and adherence to the law. He further criticized Petro’s communication style, noting apparent spelling and grammatical errors, and urged him to focus on the core issue, Rodríguez’s situation rather than diverting attention to himself. The dispute underscores broader institutional challenges within the current administration, as internal dissent grows among key officials. As the transition to the new government under Abelardo De La Espriella approaches, questions remain about how Rodríguez will be treated and whether she will retain her role in the upcoming administration. Legal experts suggest that the outcome of the tutelage could set a precedent for handling similar cases involving public officials facing accusations of misconduct or health-related issues. For now, the legal battle continues, with both sides locked in a high-stakes confrontation over the future of a once-trusted figure in the executive branch.
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