Ñoño Elías receives a controversial welcome in Sahagún after being released for corruption
The former senator has been convicted of aggravated conspiracy, money laundering, bribery and influence peddling
Sahagún, Córdoba - In an unusual scene, former senator Bernardo Miguel Elías Vidal, known as 'Ñoño' Elías, was received by a crowd in the municipality of Sahagún, in the department of Córdoba, after regaining his freedom after a conviction for corruption. The arrival of the former senator was accompanied by a caravan of high-end vehicles, motorcycles and the festive music of a papayera.
Elías, who was convicted of aggravated conspiracy, money laundering, bribery and influence peddling related to the Odebrecht corruption scandal in Colombia, smiled from a van as he greeted the cheering crowd at the streets of the municipality.
The release order was issued by the First Court for the Execution of Sentences of Sincelejo, but the National Penitentiary and Prison Institute (INPEC) is still verifying if the former senator faces other pending judicial matters.
Elías' arrival at Sahagún and the video of his reception went viral on social media, generating all kinds of reactions and criticism from public opinion. Many expressed their discontent and surprise that the former senator received a festive welcome after being convicted of serious corruption offences.
It should be noted that Elías's release comes months before the October elections, which has generated speculation and debate about the possible political implications of his return to public life.
As this controversial episode unfolds, the case of 'Ñoño' Elías remains a reminder of the challenges facing the Colombian judicial system in the fight against corruption and impunity in the country.
