Controversy Over Potential New Colombian Ambassador to Chile

The possible appointment of Sebastian Guanumen, who is now serving as the Colombian Consul to Chile, as the ambassador to Chile, has sparked a notable controversy. His open backing of Chilean protesters during the large-scale protests in 2020 has drawn sharp criticism from conservative groups in Chile.

This nomination comes amidst a diplomatic chill between Colombia and Chile. Since assuming office in August 2022, Gustavo Petro has yet to appoint an ambassador to represent Colombia in Chile.

Diplomatic controversy

Although the choice of Sebastian Guanumen has received positive opinions in Chile from the left-wing government led by President Gabriel Boric, the conservative opposition, which holds the majority in the Senate, has expressed strong objections.

The controversy stems from Sebastian Guanumen’s pronounced political positions, especially regarding the socio-political situation in Chile. Back in 2020, during the massive protests that shook Chilean streets, Sebastian Guanumen publicly expressed his “admiration” for the Chilean protesters and rioters.

In politics, nothing is forgotten, or forgiven. As such, Chilean conservative senators have expressed discontent with the potential nomination. One of them, Ivan Moreira, stated that “it would be lamentable to have an ambassador with such characteristics”.

Gustavo Petro diplomatic challenges

Since the beginning of his mandate, President Gustavo Petro has been regularly confronted with challenges concerning the appointment of ambassadors. Voices have been raised against the Colombian president, claiming that he favors appointing political allies over professional diplomats.  

For instance, the nomination of Alvaro Moises Ninco Daza as Colombia’s ambassador to Mexico in February 2023 was declared invalid by the Administrative Tribunal of Cundinamarca Department. The judicial body cited his lack of professional and university experience as the main obstacle to his appointment. However, he was later confirmed by President Petro.   

In this case as well, Sebastian Guanumen’s potential nomination as the new Colombian ambassador to Chile follows a similar pattern, as he was a former advisor to Gustavo Petro during his 2022 presidential campaign.

Although the stance of Chilean conservative senators should not affect the nomination, since the Senate of Chile lacks the authority to approve or reject diplomatic nominations, it highlights the challenges Gustavo Petro’s government faced in the diplomatic sphere.