President of Colombia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids President of theRepublic of Colombia |
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Presidential flag
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Administrative seal
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| Government of Colombia Executive Branch of Colombia |
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| Style | Mr. President (informal) The Honorable (formal) His Excellency (diplomatic) |
| Abbreviation | PDTE-CO |
| Member of | Cabinet National Government National Economic Council |
| Residence | Casa de Nariño |
| Seat | Bogotá, D.C. |
| Appointer | Popular vote or via succession |
| Term length | Four years,
non renewable
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| Constituting instrument | Constitution of Colombia (1991) |
| Formation | December 17, 1819 |
| First holder | Simón Bolívar |
| Succession | Line of succession |
| Salary | Colombian pesos 32,624,000/US$ 6,847 monthly |
| Website | presidencia.gov.co |
The President of Colombia is a very important leader. They are both the head of state and the head of government for Colombia. This means they represent the country and lead its government. The president also leads the Colombian Military Forces.
The president's role has grown a lot since the first president, Simón Bolívar, took office in 1819. The office became even more important in the 20th century.
The job of president was created when the Constitution of 1819 was approved. This happened in December 1819, when Colombia was part of "Gran Colombia". General Simón Bolívar was the first president in 1819.
Today, the president is chosen by the people in an election. They serve for four years, along with the vice president. A person who has been president cannot be elected again for a second term. Sometimes, a vice president has become president if the president died or resigned. In total, 34 people have served as president. Gustavo Petro is the 34th and current president. He started his term on August 7, 2022.
Contents
What the President Does
Leading the Military
One of the president's most important jobs is being the Commander-in-Chief of the Colombian Military Forces. While Congress declares war, the president is in charge of guiding the armed forces. The Constitution says the president directs the military as its Supreme Commander.
Managing the Government
The executive branch of government handles all the daily tasks that help the country. The president leads this branch. They represent national unity and are the top administrative authority.
The national government includes the president, their ministers, and directors of government departments. The president and the right minister or director work together on specific government matters.
Working with Other Countries
The president also handles foreign policy. They meet with ambassadors from other countries. This means the president has a lot of power over how Colombia deals with other nations. They can also officially recognize foreign governments.
The Constitution allows the president to choose Colombian ambassadors. They also propose and negotiate agreements with other countries. These agreements become national laws after getting advice from the foreign affairs minister.
Because of modern technology, presidents now often meet directly with leaders from other countries. This makes their role in foreign affairs even more direct.
Important Leadership Roles
As the head of state, the president is the main face of Colombia. They represent the country's policies both at home and abroad. A key part of their role is to protect Colombia's image around the world. Since 1934, the First Lady often joins the president at official events and visits to other countries.
The president of Colombia stands for the unity of the nation. After taking an oath to the Constitution of Colombia, they promise to protect the rights and freedoms of all Colombians.
The Administrative Department of the Presidency of Colombia helps the president with their duties and legal matters.
The National Government includes the president, the vice president, the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Colombia, and the directors of government departments. Any action by the president must be approved by a minister or department director to be legal. The only exception is when the president appoints or removes these officials.
Leaders like governors, mayors, and heads of state-owned businesses are also part of the executive branch of Colombia.
How a President is Chosen
Who Can Be President?
To become president, a person must be a natural-born citizen of Colombia. They also need to be at least 30 years old.
Campaigns and Candidates
Modern presidential campaigns start before primary elections. Political parties use these elections to choose their best candidate. The chosen candidate then picks a vice president. Many presidents in Colombia have been lawyers before taking office.
The Election Process
The president and vice president are elected by popular vote for a four-year term. Since 2015, a president cannot run for re-election, even if they want to serve a term later on.
In the past, rules about re-election changed. From 1910 to 2005, presidents could only serve one term. Then, a law in 2005 allowed a president to run for a second term. However, in 2015, the Constitution was changed back to the original rule: only one term for the president.
Starting the Job
The president's inauguration happens on August 7 every four years. This ceremony marks the official start of a new president's time in office. These events are important moments in Colombia's history.
The Presidential Sash
The presidential sash is a special symbol of the president's office. It is believed that Antonio Nariño first introduced a presidential sash. Over time, its design has changed. Today, the sash has the three colors of the national flag. It also features the coat of arms in the middle, similar to the presidential flag.
Where the President Lives and Works
The Official Home
The official home of the Colombian president is the Casa de Nariño. While in office, the president can use its facilities, including medical care, recreation, and security. The first presidential palace was in Bogotá's Plaza Mayor. After an earthquake, the office moved to the Palacio de San Carlos.
In 1885, President Rafael Núñez bought the house where Antonio Nariño was born to use as the official residence. This building was later remodeled into the current Casa de Nariño.
The House of Illustrious Guests in Cartagena de Indias is where the president hosts international visitors. The president also has a country estate called Hato Grande in Sopó, Cundinamarca, which is used as a resting place.
Presidential Travel
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When traveling, the president uses a special plane called FAC 0001, which is a Boeing 737 Business Jet. They also use two helicopters, a Bell 412 and a UH-60 Black Hawk.
Presidential Protection
The president's security is handled by the Presidential Guard. This group was officially created on December 7, 1927. They protect the president, their family, and the Casa de Nariño. This battalion has been important in protecting presidents during difficult times in Colombia's history.
Since August 16, 1928, the Presidential Guard has been responsible for the president's safety. They are a special part of the National Army.
See also
In Spanish: Presidente de Colombia para niños
