Claudia López, the former mayor of Bogotá and one-time presidential candidate, has revealed new details about a private meeting she held with former Colombian President Gustavo Petro, explaining that she initiated the conversation in hopes of healing deep rifts within the country’s left-leaning political coalition.
Speaking in a live broadcast on X (formerly Twitter), López said the meeting became necessary after Abelardo De La Espriella’s recent presidential victory left progressive forces fractured and in need of unity. “I decided to take a first step,” she said, adding that it was time to end what she called an “infamous shootout” of mutual accusations and the notion that only Petro’s Pacto Histórico party represents the true progressive cause, with anyone outside it being branded a fascist or corrupt.
López acknowledged the personal attacks she says she endured from Petro in the past, describing her willingness to sit down with him despite that history as “an act of love.” She recalled telling him directly that turning the page on their conflict would be difficult but essential.
The two also discussed her decision not to back Petro during the last presidential race, with López recalling his blunt remark at the time: that her refusal to support him was “backfiring” on her.
For the full story and additional quotes, read the original report at El Tiempo.
Source: Claudia López contó sobre qué habló con el expresidente Petro y explicó por qué decidió reunirse con él (eltiempo.com). English version produced with AI assistance.
Image: US Army Africa, BY 2.0 (via Openverse).