Saúl Kattan Cohen, who served as President Gustavo Petro’s top digital transformation adviser and held at least three other senior posts in his administration, is now facing formal legal scrutiny. Colombian newspaper El Tiempo reports that its investigative unit obtained exclusive evidence showing that Kattan has been referred for criminal, fiscal and disciplinary investigation.
The case stems from a forensic audit ordered by Colombia’s state-run power transmission company ISA into its subsidiary Internexa, where Kattan previously served as general manager and board member. The audit reportedly uncovered signs of disloyal management and contracts awarded without meeting legal requirements.
According to the report, the irregularities are tied to two large technology initiatives known as Bio-Nube and Big Data. Sources allege that pressure to push these projects forward came directly from the presidential palace, Casa de Nariño. The investigation also points to the involvement of Manel Grau, a Catalan businessman and close friend of First Lady Verónica Alcocer and President Petro himself, in one of the ventures.
Kattan has denied any wrongdoing and defended his role in the projects, according to the outlet. The case adds to a growing list of controversies surrounding figures close to the Petro government, including a separate probe into contracts and personnel tied to Alcocer during her marriage to the president.
For the full exclusive report, read the original story at El Tiempo.
Source: Exclusivo: denuncian a Saúl Kattan, exconsejero de Gustavo Petro, por megaproyecto donde aparece Manel Grau (eltiempo.com).
Image: Bolivarian Government of Venezuela.