Colombian Congress’ Accusation Commission officially opened an investigation into former President Alvaro Uribe’s involvement in the illegal wiretapping of his opponents.
Representative Alfredo Bocanegra, who will head the investigation, announced Thursday that he has signed the official order to open the investigation and begin collecting evidence.
This action follows the opening of a preliminary investigation against Uribe on October 12 after several congressmen requested the former president be investigated.
Many officials close to Uribe have been investigated, including his former chief of staff Bernardo Moreno, who earlier in October was banned from public office for 18 years for his part in the illegal activities. Uribe said he takes responsibility for Moreno’s actions, but has always maintained his innocence regarding the illegal surveillance.
Former DAS official Martha Leal has been ordered to testify in the investigation and provide any details she has about Uribe’s involvement in the wiretapping scandal. Leal is currently on trial for her part in the same affair and last week negotiated a preliminary plea bargain with prosecutors. She will testify on October 28.