Sergio Fajardo: Is he a Chavista?
Illustration courtesy of Gabriella Fabbri
A high level Venezuelan intelligence document was leaked to the press, and its contents could have a profound effect on how certain candidates perform at the May 30 presidential polls in Colombia.
The memo is titled “Road map 2010: Bilateral relations Colombia-Venezuela” and outlines which candidates are sympathetic or opposed to Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez’ Bolivarian Revolution. It stops short of detailing any financial or other support for candidates, but Chavez’ government has long practiced an interventionist policy in Colombia, thus it stands to reason that such assistance could be offered covertly.
Not surprisingly, the Liberal party is the Chavista favorite, as its members include long time Chavez supporters Piedad Cordoba, and ex-president Ernesto Samper. Equally unremarkable is the document’s lauding of the pro-Venezuela Polo Democratico party, or its harsh criticism of president Alvaro Uribe’s pick to replace him, former defense minister Juan Manuel Santos. The big surprise is its contention that one of the leading presidential candidates, independent Sergio Fajardo, would be favorable to Venezuela if he won.
Being singled-out as friendly to the neighboring country’s dictator can be toxic for any candidate running for office in a country as anti-Chavez as Colombia, as the final vote tally will certainly bear out.
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Are we confusing having an interest in improving relations with Chavez with being friendly like in “buying” on Chavez Bolivarian mentality? I don’t know, I am just wondering. I like Mockus and do not like Santos; but would not like Mockus/Fajardo to be buddies w/ Chavez. I also believe that followers of santos could start false/misleading rumors on the green candidates to create discent. I like Uribe very much, while acknowledging that to do the much good for the country he might have compromised too much and it’s starting to come to the surface. If Mockus is NOT naive w/ the FARC & Chavez, I believe he would be an asset to the Colombian government.