Colombia’s President Juan Manuel Santos announced his full support for newly-elected Prosecutor General Eduardo Montelagre in an official press release Thursday.
The election of Montealegre, an ally of former President Alvaro Uribe, comes at a crucial time for the government, which has recently made major strides in combating corruption and terrorism, according to Santos.
“The role of the [Prosecutor General’s] office is essential. And our support will be essential and you can feel the government is ready to help in what we consider to be useful,” the head of state said as Montealegre assumed his position.
Montealegre, who has been a lawyer for more than 20 years and served on Colombia’s Consitutional Court, was elected with 16 votes March 22.
He said shortly before his election that if his bid was successful, he would focus on human rights and tackling corruption and organized crime.
