After numerous corruption scandals, Bogota can trust its politicians again, Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos declared on Wednesday.
“After the trouble, Bogota has gained back its trust in its administration. The city, as well as the rest of the country, is demanding more from its leaders, and we are not going to disappoint [them].” Santos said.
Colombia’s capital has faced numerous corruption scandals in recent months, the most controversial involving former mayor Samuel Moreno. The former leader is facing charges of fraudulent contracting, embezzlement and extortion in relation to public works contracts.
Santos also mentioned several changes to be undergone in Bogota, such as a new metro line, and a project to renovate Bogota’s Carrera Septima, one of the city’s main streets. “We will turn the Carrera Septima (…) into a green corridor, which will make it the most lively and beautiful avenue in our city, an attraction to locals and foreigners alike.” said the head of state.
Other projects include a suburban train to facilitate access between the city and neighboring municpalities Facatativa and Chia, and an ambitious housing renovation project. The project, which aims to renovate the entire CAN zone (more than 354 acres), is being labelled the most important ever undertaken in Colombia.
“United – the national, local and departmental governments – we will make a difference to the destiny of Bogota and its surroundings.” concluded Santos.
