ON
← Back to feed
Petro asks Senate permission to leave the country
CO🏛️ PoliticsCenter8/13/2026

Petro asks Senate permission to leave the country

The former President of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, has formally requested permission from the Senate to leave the country through a letter addressed to the Senate's General Secretary. He stated that he intends to fulfill political, social, academic, and economic commitments abroad over the next 12 months. This request follows a similar move by former President Andrés Pastrana, who had previously asked the Senate to block Petro’s departure. The requirement for such permission is outlined in Article 193 of the Colombian Constitution, which imposes a one-year restriction on former presidents leaving the country. The Senate is expected to vote on the request during its next session. A recent precedent was set by Virgilio Barco, who sought permission to travel abroad after his presidency ended. Petro is still on the U.S. 'Clinton List' due to sanctions imposed by Donald Trump, which restricts his ability to make international transactions, including purchasing air tickets, using personal accounts. Rumors suggest Mexico might be his destination, where he has allies within the ruling Morena Party and connections with current and former leaders.

Advertisement

Go to the primary sources (4)

The official sources this coverage is built on. Read them directly to bypass framing.

12 reports

El Espectador logoEl EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 958/12/2026
Senate approves Petro's request to leave the country: must inform destinations and dates

The Colombian Senate approved Petro's request to leave the country, requiring him to report his destinations and dates. The decision comes amid ongoing political tensions and scrutiny surrounding Petro's activities. The approval was likely influenced by legislative pressures and concerns over transparency. This development highlights the increasing oversight of political figures in Colombia.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the approval of Petro's request as a factual update without overtly criticizing or praising the action. It focuses on the procedural outcome rather than taking a clear ideological stance. There is no strong emphasis on specific political ideologies or partisan perspectives, thus

Why factuality (90): This article is identical in content to the previous one, reporting the same event: the Senate's approval of President Petro's request to leave the country. As with the first article, the information is factual and consistent with reported legislative actions. No contradictory information is present

Why objectivity (95): As with the first article, this piece maintains a neutral tone and presents the event without bias or emotional language. It serves as a direct report of the Senate's decision without adding personal opinion or commentary, ensuring strong objectivity.

El Espectador logoEl EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 958/12/2026
Senate approves Petro's request to leave the country: must inform destinations and dates

The Colombian Senate approved Petro's request to leave the country, requiring him to report his destinations and dates. The decision comes amid ongoing political tensions and scrutiny surrounding Petro's activities. The approval was likely influenced by legislative pressures and concerns over transparency. This development highlights the increasing oversight of political figures in Colombia.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the approval of Petro's request as a factual update without overtly criticizing or praising the action. It focuses on the procedural outcome rather than taking a clear ideological stance. There is no strong emphasis on specific political ideologies or partisan perspectives, thus

Why factuality (90): This article reports on the Senate's approval of President Petro's request to leave the country, requiring him to disclose travel destinations and dates. It cites the action as having been approved by the Senate, which is a factual claim supported by the legislative process. There is no conflicting

Why objectivity (95): The article presents the news in a neutral, straightforward manner without emotional language or editorializing. It simply reports the outcome of the Senate's decision without taking sides or offering commentary, maintaining a high level of objectivity.

Semana logoSemanaIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 608/13/2026
Former President Petro sent message after receiving permission to leave the country for a year: I am not imprisoned

The former Colombian president, Gustavo Petro, announced through his X account that he has been authorized by the Senate to leave the country for a year. The authorization was granted after a vote in which 73 senators voted in favor and 11 against. The decision requires Petro to notify the Senate of the destination and date of each international trip. The authorization is part of a legal mechanism established for former presidents to ensure institutional follow-up on their activities abroad during the first year after leaving office. Petro emphasized his freedom to travel, stating he is not imprisoned and has not committed any crime.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the event objectively, focusing on the procedural aspects of the Senate's decision and Petro's statement. It does not take a clear ideological stance but reports both the legal justification provided by Petro and the legislative process. The tone remains neutral, avoiding overt褒

Why factuality (90): This article provides detailed information about the Senate’s approval of Petro’s travel authorization, including the vote count and conditions. It references the constitutional provision (Article 196) and aligns with the primary source document. It also mentions the requirement for prior notificati

Why objectivity (60): While factual content is strong, the article has a partisan tone, especially in phrases like 'no está preso' and 'el que haya gente que no me quiera'. These statements reflect a political stance rather than a neutral perspective.

Semana logoSemanaIndependentCenterFactual 88Objective 658/12/2026
Senate gives yes to Gustavo Petro to leave Colombia, but he must fulfill fundamental requirement

The former President of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, requested permission from the Senate to leave the country for one year. In a formal letter, he cited constitutional and legislative provisions allowing such a request, emphasizing his need to attend personal, social, political, and academic commitments abroad. The Senate approved the request with a vote of 73 in favor and 11 against, but imposed a condition requiring Petro to inform the Senate of the location and date of each international trip in advance. This decision aligns with established procedures for former presidents, aiming to maintain institutional oversight of their international activities.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the procedural and legal aspects of Petro’s request and the Senate’s approval without overtly endorsing or criticizing either side. It reports the vote outcome and conditions objectively, without evident ideological slant. While the issue involves high-profile politics, the tone

Why factuality (88): The article accurately describes Petro’s request for authorization based on Article 196 of the Constitution. It cites the vote count and the condition of notifying travel details, which are consistent with the primary source. The reference to the constitutional regulation is correct.

Why objectivity (65): The article maintains a relatively neutral tone but includes some subjective phrasing such as 'la determinación del Legislativo cierra el trámite previsto...' which suggests a more favorable view of the legislative process.

El Espectador logoEl EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 908/11/2026
Former President Petro asked Congress for permission to leave the country for a year

Former President Gustavo Petro has requested permission from Congress to leave the country for a period of one year. This request comes amid ongoing political discussions and potential legislative actions regarding his travel plans. The move has sparked interest and debate within Colombia's political landscape, particularly concerning the procedures and implications of such a request. As a former president, Petro's intentions and the reasons behind this request remain under scrutiny by various stakeholders.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual statement without overtly biased language or emphasis. It reports on a procedural action taken by a former president without indicating approval, criticism, or ideological framing. The lack of additional context or commentary suggests neutrality in reporting.

Why factuality (85): This article mirrors the content of item #2, reporting the same event regarding Petro seeking permission to leave the country. It confirms the factual nature of the event without adding new information or interpretation. The consistency between the two articles supports its reliability.

Why objectivity (90): As with item #2, this article is objective and neutral, simply relaying the event without editorializing or taking sides. It avoids emotional language and sticks to the core facts.

Semana logoSemanaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 808/11/2026
Gustavo Petro asks Congress for permission to leave Colombia for a year; this is the letter

Ex-presidente Gustavo Petro solicitó formalmente al Senado de Colombia la autorización para ausentarse del país durante un año, basándose en disposiciones constitucionales y legales. En su carta, mencionó que necesita el permiso para atender asuntos personales, sociales, políticos y académicos. La normativa establece que quienes han dejado el cargo presidencial deben obtener dicha autorización antes de salir del país. Hasta ahora, no ha habido respuesta oficial del Senado, pero el presidente del Senado, Honorio Henríquez, debe programar la discusión sobre la solicitud. Si se aprueba, Petro podrá salir; si no, podría quedar obligado a permanecer en el país durante un año. Además, se menciona que Petro enfrenta dificultades para viajar internacionalmente debido a su inclusión en la Lista Clinton por parte de la Administración de Donald Trump.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the legal process and procedural requirements for Petro's request without overtly endorsing or criticizing his actions. It provides factual information about the constitutional basis for his request and the potential outcomes, without taking a clear ideological stance. The tone,

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports that former President Gustavo Petro requested authorization from the Senate to leave Colombia for a year, citing constitutional and legal provisions. It provides specific references to Article 173 of the Constitution and Law 5 of 1992, which align with the cross-source

Why objectivity (80): The tone remains neutral, presenting Petro’s request as a formal procedure without overtly expressing approval or criticism. However, there is a slight editorial tilt in the phrase 'en medio del terremoto' which may imply urgency or controversy, though it is framed within the context of his public s

Semana logoSemanaIndependentConservativeFactual 85Objective 658/13/2026
You want to fly: spokeswoman of the Government of Abelardo De La Espriella reacts to Petro's authorization to travel

Former President Gustavo Petro has requested authorization from the Senate to travel abroad for a year, as stipulated by Article 196 of Colombia’s Constitution. The request was approved by the Senate with 73 votes in favor and 11 against. In his letter, Petro stated he seeks permission to attend personal, social, political, and academic commitments outside the country during the year following his presidential term. After the approval, Carolina Gómez, the designated spokesperson for current President Abelardo De La Espriella, commented on social media with the phrase 'Se quiere volar' ('He wants to fly'), implying skepticism or criticism of Petro's intentions.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the situation through the perspective of the current administration, quoting their spokesperson's critical remark ('Se quiere volar') toward former President Petro's travel request. This phrasing implies suspicion or disapproval of Petro's actions, suggesting a right-leaning bias.

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports that Gustavo Petro requested authorization from the Senate under Article 196 of the Colombian Constitution. It mentions the 73 votes in favor and 11 against, aligning with the primary source. However, it includes subjective commentary from the government spokesperson (

Why objectivity (65): The tone is somewhat biased, particularly through the government spokesperson’s comment 'Se quiere volar', which implies criticism of Petro’s request. The article also uses emotionally charged language when describing Petro’s response.

La Silla Vacía logoLa Silla VacíaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 608/12/2026
Petro can leave the country with the permission of the Senate.

The Colombian Senate approved by a vote of 73 to 11 a proposal by former President Gustavo Petro to leave the country, allowing him to do so under specific conditions. The decision was based on Article 193 of the Constitution, which requires expresidentes to seek permission before leaving Colombia. Petro did not disclose his destination but stated he has commitments abroad over the next year. The move comes amid ongoing legal investigations against him and other former officials. Some senators raised concerns about the precedent this could set, while others argued that denying travel rights based on investigations would be dangerous. The article notes that Petro remains on the U.S. 'Clinton List' due to sanctions imposed by Donald Trump, limiting his ability to make international transactions.

Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple perspectives: it reports the approval of Petro’s request, mentions opposition from some senators, and includes arguments from different political factions. It does not take a clear ideological stance, instead presenting both supporting and opposing viewpoints. The tone,

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports that Petro requested authorization from the Senate under Article 196 of the Constitution and that the Senate approved it with 73 votes in favor. It correctly references the constitutional provision and the required conditions. However, it includes some speculative rema

Why objectivity (60): The tone is slightly biased, particularly in the way it frames Petro’s request as potentially having ulterior motives. While factual, it leans toward a political interpretation rather than pure neutrality.

El Espectador logoEl EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 758/11/2026
Former President Petro asked Congress for permission to leave the country for a year

Former President Juan Manuel Santos, referred to as 'Expresidente Petro' in the headline (though this appears to be a misattribution), has requested permission from Congress to leave the country for a period of one year. The request was reported by El Espectador, a Colombian news outlet. The article states that the former president is seeking authorization to depart Colombia temporarily, though the reasons for the request and any specific destinations are not detailed in the provided text. This development comes amid ongoing political discussions in Colombia regarding leadership transitions and legal matters involving former officials.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on a formal request made by a former president to Congress, without overtly criticizing or praising the action. There is no clear ideological framing or emphasis on particular political factions. The tone remains neutral, focusing solely on the procedural aspect

Why factuality (80): The article discusses the political backing for Laverde and the internal dynamics among different parties. It references multiple sources and outlines the expected outcome, which aligns with other reports. However, the lack of primary documentation means some claims remain less verifiable.

Why objectivity (75): The tone suggests a degree of insider knowledge and possibly a partisan perspective, especially in highlighting the support from the Pacto Histórico and the Centro Democrático. While not overtly biased, the framing subtly influences the reader’s understanding.

Semana logoSemanaIndependentConservativeFactual 75Objective 558/12/2026
Maria Fernanda Cabal: Don't let Petro fly away from you

Former senator María Fernanda Cabal of the Center Democratic party criticized former President Gustavo Petro for requesting permission from the Senate to take a one-year trip abroad after leaving office. Cabal warned against allowing Petro to 'fly away,' suggesting he should remain in Colombia to face potential legal obligations. Petro had informed the Senate leadership of his intention to travel for personal matters, which requires approval under existing regulations. Cabal implied that Petro might be trying to avoid future legal responsibilities, as several investigations are ongoing against him in the House of Representatives' Investigation and Accusation Committee.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames María Fernanda Cabal’s criticism of Gustavo Petro as a warning against allowing him to escape accountability, implying Petro may be evading legal consequences. The tone suggests skepticism toward Petro’s intentions and aligns with conservative perspectives within the Center Democr

Why factuality (75): The article correctly states that Petro requested permission from the Senate under Article 193 of the Constitution. However, it incorrectly refers to Article 193 instead of Article 196, which is the relevant constitutional provision. It also adds speculative information about Petro’s destination and

Why objectivity (55): The tone is clearly biased, suggesting that Petro may be avoiding legal issues and implying his destination. This reflects a political agenda rather than objective reporting.

La Silla Vacía logoLa Silla VacíaIndependentCenterFactual 70Objective 508/11/2026
Petro asks Senate permission to leave the country

The former President of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, has formally requested permission from the Senate to leave the country through a letter addressed to the Senate's General Secretary. He stated that he intends to fulfill political, social, academic, and economic commitments abroad over the next 12 months. This request follows a similar move by former President Andrés Pastrana, who had previously asked the Senate to block Petro’s departure. The requirement for such permission is outlined in Article 193 of the Colombian Constitution, which imposes a one-year restriction on former presidents leaving the country. The Senate is expected to vote on the request during its next session. A recent precedent was set by Virgilio Barco, who sought permission to travel abroad after his presidency ended. Petro is still on the U.S. 'Clinton List' due to sanctions imposed by Donald Trump, which restricts his ability to make international transactions, including purchasing air tickets, using personal accounts. Rumors suggest Mexico might be his destination, where he has allies within the ruling Morena Party and connections with current and former leaders.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the situation neutrally, detailing both Petro's request and previous instances of similar actions by other former presidents. It includes constitutional references and historical precedents without overtly favoring any political side. While it mentions political alliances and U.

Why factuality (70): This article contains several inaccuracies, including referencing Article 193 instead of Article 196. It also speculates about Petro’s destination and includes information about the 'Lista Clinton' and potential financial restrictions, which are not confirmed by the primary source. Some details are

Why objectivity (50): The article has a strongly political tone, suggesting that Petro may be evading justice and implying that his travel could be politically motivated. This shows clear bias towards a particular narrative.

El Espectador logoEl EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 45Objective 508/12/2026
Senate approves Petro's request to leave the country: must inform destinations and dates

The Colombian Senate has approved President Gustavo Petro's request to travel abroad. As part of the approval, Petro is required to report his destinations and dates of travel. This decision comes amid ongoing discussions about the transparency and accountability of presidential movements. The requirement for Petro to disclose his travel plans reflects efforts to ensure openness in the actions of high-ranking officials. The move is likely to be scrutinized by both supporters and critics of the president.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual account of the Senate's decision without apparent ideological framing. It does not use loaded language or emphasize one side over another. The focus is on procedural compliance rather than political critique or endorsement.

Why factuality (45): The article reports that the Senate approved Petro's request to leave the country, but there is no primary source confirming this action. The claim lacks supporting documentation from official government sources or legislative records. Cross-source consensus among other articles does not mention thi

Why objectivity (50): The tone is somewhat sensational, using phrases like 'deberá informar destinos y fechas' which implies a level of certainty not supported by evidence. The article appears to present information as confirmed without sufficient verification, leaning towards a more journalistic style than purely object

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories