On August 1, 2025, in Court 44 of knowledge in Bogotá, a 12-year sentence for former president Álvaro Uribe Vélez was confirmed after he was found guilty of bribery in criminal action and procedural fraud .
After the ruling was read, Judge Sandra Heredia ordered home arrest , noting that none of the crimes surpassed eight years individually. This marked a significant moment in Uribe’s legal battle that has been closely monitored by both the media and the public.
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During the reading of the verdict, it was revealed that the Attorney General’s Office established that through lawyer Diego Cadena , Uribe committed bribery while negotiating with several individuals, including Juan Guillermo Monsalve , Carlos Enrique Vélez , aka Víctor , and Eurídice Cortés , aka Diana .
In response to the arguments presented, Uribe promptly instructed his defense lawyer Jaime Granados to file an immediate appeal against the ruling. He stated, “I will exercise it orally here at this audience. It corresponds only to what is the material defense that touches me and that has nothing to do with anything.” This statement reflects his determination to contest the ruling vigorously.
Additionally, the former governor of Antioquia clarified that the technical document required for the appeal would be submitted by his legal team at the appropriate time, emphasizing the importance of procedure in this politically charged case.
“The resource of technical defense that will be exercised will be supported in writing within the terms of the law,” he affirmed. Uribe urged his lawyer to focus solely on supporting the appeal. This reaffirms his commitment to relying on legal frameworks as he navigates this complex judicial landscape.
Tensions escalated during the session as Judge Sandra Heredia accused Uribe’s children of leaking information about the ruling to the media. This statement triggered a fierce response from the former president, who defended his family vehemently. “I strongly protest about this treatment to my children; you have treated me in the worst way. I have respected it, but I do not accept that you get with my family,” Uribe asserted, highlighting the emotional stakes of the proceedings.
In light of Uribe’s outburst, his attorney intervened and clarified that Tomás and Jerónimo , Uribe’s sons, were not involved in any leaks. Judge Heredia maintained that her comments were not intended as disrespect, encouraging Uribe to remain calm during court proceedings. This exchange illustrates not only the tensions at play but also the personal ramifications of this high-profile case.
The exchange concluded with Judge Heredia urging Uribe to respect the court procedures. “I ask you to be quiet. If you want to speak, I will give you the floor. In addition, for constancy, here are the publications; I am not missing the truth. The publications are as they are, and I ask the authorities to investigate the facts,” she stated. This moment underscored the gravity of the situation as both parties navigated through a highly publicized and contentious judicial process.
In light of these developments, the future of Uribe’s political career and legal standing remains uncertain. The case has polarized opinions across Colombia, bringing to the forefront discussions about justice, power, and accountability. As the appeals process unfolds, many are left anticipating how this saga will ultimately shape the nation’s political landscape.