COMISIÓN QUINTA CONTITUCIONAL PERMANTENTE SENADO - JUNIO 17 DE 2026

Opening and Attendance

Initial Proceedings

• The session begins with the Secretary calling the roll of senators present.

• A total of seven honorable senators are confirmed present, establishing a quorum for deliberation.

Agenda Confirmation

• The President is informed about an authorized change regarding Senator John Moisés Besaile Fayat and Senator José David Name.

• The proposed agenda for June 17, 2026, includes several key items such as approval of previous minutes and discussion on legislative projects.

Reflections from Senator Edgar Díaz

Personal Gratitude

• Senator Edgar Díaz expresses gratitude to God and his constituents for his time in Congress since 2018, emphasizing his commitment to limit his terms.

• He acknowledges the contributions of women in the commission and highlights their dedication regardless of political ideologies.

Achievements and Challenges

• Díaz reflects on the significant work accomplished during the first semester despite upcoming elections posing challenges. He mentions numerous public debates held.

• He shares statistics indicating that approximately 48 legislative projects were introduced, with 16 approved during this period. Additionally, he notes various sessions held for discussions and control debates.

Acknowledgments by Other Senators

Recognition of Leadership

• Another senator commends President Díaz's leadership style, noting his ability to foster collaboration among members despite differing political views.

• There is a shared sentiment of friendship developed over eight years among colleagues within the commission, highlighting personal connections formed through their work together.

Legislative Contributions

• Senators discuss their collective achievements in passing important legislation related to environmental issues, energy security, and animal rights throughout their tenure in office. They emphasize ongoing efforts needed in these areas moving forward.

Closing Remarks from Senator Catalina Pérez

Personal Journey

• Senator Catalina Pérez shares her heartfelt appreciation for her experiences within the Senate at age 77, expressing joy at meeting diverse individuals across party lines who share mutual respect despite differences. She identifies herself as a representative of rural communities with unique cultural backgrounds.

Vision for Colombia

• She emphasizes her desire to contribute positively towards improving education, health care access, housing conditions, and overall quality of life for all Colombians while reflecting on her own struggles growing up without educational opportunities until later in life. She advocates for laws that benefit all citizens equally regardless of background or status within society.

Final Thoughts

Commitment Beyond Senate

• As she prepares to leave the Senate, Pérez reaffirms her commitment to continue advocating for social justice issues outside formal political structures while cherishing friendships made during her time there.

Call to Action

• She encourages remaining senators to persistently pursue legislation aimed at bridging societal gaps within Colombia’s diverse population while fostering unity among its people regardless of ideological divides or past grievances experienced along their journeys together as legislators serving common goals ahead into future endeavors beyond this assembly room setting today!

Reflections on Political Journey and Experiences

Personal Anecdotes in the Senate

• The speaker reflects on their initial experience in the Senate, highlighting a significant moment of hesitation when meeting Senator Pablo Catatumbo for the first time.

• A humorous encounter is recounted where the speaker introduces themselves to Catatumbo, emphasizing their political affiliation with Centro Democrático.

• The importance of mutual respect among senators is underscored, as Catatumbo expresses gratitude for being greeted by a senator from a different party.

Observations on Political Climate

• The speaker notes a critical shift in opposition dynamics during a government that has ideologically diverged from previous administrations.

• They express concern over how public perception often generalizes politicians as corrupt, stressing that many are dedicated and honest individuals.

Transitioning Roles and Responsibilities

• The speaker discusses their unique position as the only senator transitioning to the House of Representatives, sharing insights into this decision influenced by party leadership.

• They mention achieving historic voting numbers while downplaying personal accolades, focusing instead on collective efforts within Antioquia.

Future Aspirations and Commitment

• Clarifying misconceptions about moving from Senate to House as retirement from politics, they assert their commitment to serving constituents actively.

• The speaker expresses aspirations for future political roles while affirming loyalty to their current responsibilities in Congress.

Closing Remarks and Gratitude

• Acknowledgment of colleagues' support throughout their tenure is made, emphasizing teamwork and shared goals within legislative committees.

• They conclude with reflections on personal values regarding political integrity and commitment to principles despite changing circumstances.