Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro will appoint Edwin Palma as energy minister in a cabinet reshuffle after significant resignations. Palma will lead the transition to renewable energy, a key policy of Petro’s. The reshuffle follows protests against recent appointments, particularly those of Armando Benedetti and Laura Sarabia, and coincides with plans for offshore wind energy development.
Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro is set to appoint Edwin Palma, a union leader and former vice-minister of labor, as the new energy minister. This announcement comes as part of a cabinet reshuffle following a recent request by Petro for the resignation of all his ministers after a tense cabinet meeting involving objections to his appointments.
Palma, who has held prominent positions including the head of the oil union USO and a seat on the board of Colombia’s Ecopetrol, will take on the critical role of leading the country’s shift from oil and coal towards renewable energy, a key focus of President Petro’s administration that has encountered various challenges.
The reshuffle follows the resignations of nine key ministers, including those in charge of the interior and the environment. Several officials resigned in protest over Petro’s controversial appointment of Armando Benedetti, who has faced serious allegations, as well as the appointment of Laura Sarabia as foreign minister. Petro has emphasized his support for Benedetti, naming him as the new interior minister despite discontent within his cabinet.
Additionally, Colombia’s National Hydrocarbons Agency announced that companies worldwide are interested in developing 69 offshore sites as part of the country’s inaugural offshore wind energy auction, highlighting the growing focus on renewable energy initiatives.
In conclusion, President Gustavo Petro is making significant changes to his cabinet, including the appointment of Edwin Palma as energy minister. This move reaffirms his commitment to renewable energy amid controversies and challenges within his administration. Notably, the government’s intentions towards offshore wind energy development signal a broader transition away from traditional hydrocarbon dependency.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
