The Unidad Nacional de Protección (UNP) has found itself at the center of a political firestorm following allegations regarding the security detail assigned to Juliana Guerrero. While critics question why a non-public servant possesses a robust security apparatus, the UNP claims the measures were requested by a high-ranking government official.
Controversy Over Robust Security Measures
Juliana Guerrero is facing intense scrutiny not only for allegations regarding the irregular management of her professional titles as an accountant and technologist but also for her security arrangements. Journalist Jacobo Solano reports that Guerrero has access to a significant security detail, potentially consisting of two to three armored vehicles and between six and nine protection officers.
This level of protection, which varies based on the risk in regions such as Cesar, has drawn sharp criticism. Solano compared the size of the caravan to that of the nation’s first lady, questioning why such resources are allocated to someone who is not a public servant.
Daniel Briceño, a former Bogotá councilman and elected congressman, also condemned the use of taxpayer funds for Guerrero’s protection. Briceño highlighted the disparity between these resources and the lack of protection for social leaders who face constant threats of assassination.
Conflicting Accounts: The UNP vs. Angie Rodríguez
The controversy intensified after statements from Angie Rodríguez, the current manager of the Fondo de Adaptación and former director of the Departamento Administrativo de la Presidencia de la República (Dapre). Rodríguez claimed that the UNP acted “quickly” to provide Guerrero with security despite a lack of evidence regarding threats to her life.
However, UNP Director Augusto Rodríguez countered these claims by revealing that Angie Rodríguez herself requested the protection for Guerrero. According to the director, Rodríguez sent a formal letter on March 6, 2025, while serving as director of Dapre, requesting Guerrero’s enrollment in the prevention and protection program.
Augusto Rodríguez pointed out a “curious contradiction,” noting that while Angie Rodríguez now claims there was no proof of risk, the original request included a list of links that allegedly demonstrated the risks justifying the protection.
Allegations of Informal Power
Despite not currently holding a position in the administration of President Gustavo Petro, Angie Rodríguez alleges that Juliana Guerrero maintains significant influence within the national government. Rodríguez claims that Guerrero exerts control over the Fondo Colombia Paz and Dapre, and has attempted to control the fund of the Ministry of Equality.
Separately, the UNP has clarified that Angie Rodríguez also possesses a robust security scheme, which was approved on January 28, 2026, following her appointment as manager of the Fondo de Adaptación. This scheme includes an armored vehicle, a security companion, and a bulletproof vest.
The agreement for Rodríguez’s protection totals 250 million pesos, with additional costs of 1.4 million pesos per day for regional travel. These details were disclosed by the UNP to refute claims that Rodríguez had been left unprotected.
Potential Future Developments
Given the conflicting testimonies, this situation could lead to further administrative inquiries into how protection schemes are granted to non-public servants. The allegations of informal power within the government may also prompt calls for greater transparency regarding the influence of non-appointed advisors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Juliana Guerrero’s security detail considered controversial?
The controversy stems from the fact that Guerrero is not a public servant, yet she reportedly has a robust security detail including up to three armored cars and nine guards, funded by Colombian taxes.
Who was responsible for requesting Juliana Guerrero’s protection?
According to UNP Director Augusto Rodríguez, the request was formally made by Angie Rodríguez on March 6, 2025, while she was the director of the Dapre.
What positions did Juliana Guerrero hold in the Ministry of the Interior?
She was appointed as the Executive Secretary of the Office of the Minister and the coordinator of the Cabinet Coordination Group of the Ministry of the Interior.
Should state-funded security be strictly limited to official public servants, or is there a valid case for protecting non-officials who hold significant government influence?
