Colombia's Environment and Sustainable Development Minister, Susana Muhamad, resigned from her position on Sunday, February 9, 2025, citing disagreements with President Gustavo Petro over the appointment of Armando Benedetti as Presidential Chief of Staff. Muhamad, a prominent figure in Petro's government, expressed her dissent during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, February 4, following Benedetti's controversial appointment.
Benedetti, a former ambassador, has been embroiled in several corruption investigations and a domestic violence scandal involving his wife, Adelina Guerrero, who accused him of physical assault during a trip to Madrid in July 2024. Muhamad, a vocal feminist, stated that she could not remain in the cabinet with Benedetti present. She emphasized that her decision to resign was not a sudden one, and she had consistently maintained her stance against Benedetti's appointment.
President Petro has defended Benedetti's presence, acknowledging his crucial role in financing Petro's 2022 presidential campaign. Muhamad, however, maintained that her disagreement with Petro's decision warranted her resignation. She confirmed that she had submitted her resignation letter to Petro and that the effective date of her departure is yet to be determined.
Muhamad, a trusted ally of Petro who served as his advisor during his tenure as Mayor of Bogota from 2012 to 2015, is a highly regarded figure in the government. She will continue to serve as President of the COP16.