Presidency Denies Family Link Between President and University Delegate

The Presidency issued a statement clarifying that Father Rodolfo Londoño de la Espriella is not a cousin or relative of President Abelardo de la Espriella. The clarification follows the appointment of the priest as the president's delegate to the Superior University Councils of five public institutions: the National, Pedagogical, Antioquia, Valle, and Atlántico universities. The Presidency stated that the shared surname does not indicate a blood relation or affinity and asserted that the appointment was based on criteria of suitability and service. According to official statements, the role is unpaid and does not include a salary or fees. Father Londoño de la Espriella also serves as the chaplain of the Presidency. While the center lean coverage notes that the president's ex-wife was appointed as a delegated superintendent for Notaries, the center-left lean coverage highlights a legal challenge by Representative Isabel Vera. Vera, a member of the Pacto Histórico, argues that the appointment violates conflict of interest regulations and characterizes the move as nepotism because the appointee is a priest rather than an academic or scientist.