A Colombian court has ordered the release of former president Álvaro Uribe, allowing him to move freely while he appeals his recent witness tampering conviction.
Earlier this month, Uribe was handed a 12-year house arrest sentence, the harshest penalty possible, marking the first time in Colombia’s history that a former president was convicted of a crime.
Uribe, who governed Colombia between 2002 and 2010, was found guilty of pressuring right-wing paramilitaries to lie about their ties to him during years of violent conflict with leftist rebels. He has been confined to his home in Rionegro since August 1.
The 73-year-old, widely seen as a law-and-order hardliner and long-time ally of the United States, has argued that the trial was politically motivated by the current leftist government of President Gustavo Petro.
On Tuesday, the Superior Court in Bogotá ruled that Uribe does not pose a flight risk and can remain free while his appeal is being considered. The court has until October 16 to confirm or overturn the conviction; otherwise, the case will be annulled.
Reacting on X, Uribe wrote: “Thanks to God, thanks to so many fellow Colombians for their expressions of solidarity. I will dedicate every minute of my freedom to the freedom of Colombia.”
While still admired by many Colombians, Uribe remains a polarizing figure. President Petro openly questioned his release, asking, “Is that justice?”, while U.S. Senator Marco Rubio denounced the prosecution, accusing judges of politicization.
The trial, which began in May 2024, featured testimony from over 90 witnesses, including a former paramilitary fighter who claimed Uribe directly asked him to alter his testimony.
What you should know
Álvaro Uribe, Colombia’s most influential conservative politician in recent decades, faces a historic conviction for witness tampering.
His temporary freedom highlights the country’s deep political divide between his conservative base and President Petro’s leftist administration.
