
An old video of Colombian President Gustavo Petro has resurfaced online, sparking controversy and accusations of infidelity involving a transgender woman, Linda Yepes. The viral clip has drawn sharp reactions from citizens and netizens alike, adding pressure to the already heated trade conflict between Petro and former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Viral Video Sparks Outrage in Colombia
The video, which shows Petro walking hand in hand with transgender newscaster Linda Yepes during a Panama trip, has reignited public scrutiny over the president’s personal life. Another image circulating online purportedly shows Petro photographing Yepes as she posed in a strapless blue dress. While Petro has not confirmed that he is the man in the clip, his silence on the matter has further fueled speculation.
Colombia, a predominantly Catholic and conservative country, has reacted strongly to the allegations. Many citizens have accused Petro of both infidelity and misuse of public funds for personal escapades. “Your sexual orientation is irrelevant, but the use of public resources to finance your adventures would be of interest to us all,” wrote one social media user.
The video has amassed over 3.8 million views on social media, with users questioning the potential political fallout from the alleged scandal.
Trump-Petro Trade Tensions Escalate
The video’s resurfacing coincides with a trade spat between Colombia and the U.S., led by Trump’s threat to impose a 25% tariff on Colombian goods. This came after Colombia refused to allow U.S. military planes carrying deported migrants to land in the country. In retaliation, Petro’s administration imposed a matching 25% tariff on U.S. goods, marking the beginning of a trade war between the two nations.
As the U.S.’s third-largest trading partner in Latin America, Colombia’s strained relationship with the U.S. has drawn widespread attention, with the alleged affair adding an unexpected dimension to Petro’s already controversial tenure.
Petro’s Response to the Allegations
In response to the growing controversy, Petro took to X (formerly Twitter) to dismiss claims about his sexual orientation, denying that he is gay while condemning transphobia. He attributed the backlash to a “right-wing, deeply exclusionary, ignorant and discriminatory society.”
“I am heterosexual, but you will never hear or read a transphobic word from me. Because not only would I cease to be a man, but a human being,” Petro asserted.
The president further emphasized his commitment to maintaining privacy, describing it as a cornerstone of personal freedom.
Broader Implications
The scandal has not only affected Petro’s personal reputation but has also sparked conversations about LGBTQ+ rights and societal attitudes in Colombia. Critics have questioned the president’s leadership while others have called out Trump supporters for their focus on Petro’s private life rather than policy matters.
As tensions with the U.S. escalate and domestic criticism mounts, the unfolding drama could have significant political and economic ramifications for Colombia.
Sources By Agencies