His four years in office between 2008 and 2011 were no astounding success. His flagship project to construct 21 public works failed, as only eight were finished, and the security situation in his city deteriorated considerably.
His 2019 election bid was complicated both by dirty campaign tactics of his direct political opponent and a criminal investigation into alleged election fraud during his 2007 campaign.
Despite the setbacks and thanks to the support of loyal local elites, Ospina won the elections.