Colombian MP Caught Vaping In Parliament Amid Healthcare Debate, Apologises After Backlash – News18

Last Updated:December 21, 2024, 5:42 PM IST

After being found vaping during a parliamentary session on healthcare reforms, Colombian lawmaker Cathy Juvinao issued an apology.

During a parliamentary meeting on healthcare reforms, Colombian lawmaker Cathy Juvinao was captured vaping on camera. The act has caused a great deal of controversy and criticism on social media. Juvinao, a Green Alliance Party member and Bogota lawmaker was caught using a vape pen at a meeting of the country’s House of Representatives on December 17. Her actions were even more startling because, ironically, the discussion was about improvements to Colombia’s health policies.

As Juvinao gets ready to speak to the legislative body, she is seen vaping in the video, which has caused a great deal of uproar. She seemed to notice the camera, sucked out the vapour fast and hid the gadget, but not before her actions were caught on camera.

As soon as the video went viral, she released an apology on social media, admitting her mistake and promising not to do it again. “I apologize to the citizens for what happened yesterday in the plenary session. I will not join the bad example that is currently dominating public discourse and it will not be repeated. Rest assured that today I will continue to fight from the House with the same arguments and rigor as always,” her post read.

In an effort to impose stringent regulations on the industry, the country recently established legislation governing the use of vaping devices and electronic cigarettes. In Colombia, it is reportedly prohibited to smoke or vape in any government building, including the parliamentary chambers. This incident occurs months after President Gustavo Petro passed laws to control the sale and use of vaping devices and e-cigarettes in an effort to reduce their widespread use in the nation.

The public’s response to the Colombian politician’s actions has been divided. Although some have criticised the protocol violation, others have praised her prompt recognition and remorse.

A user said, “During a discussion about healthcare reform is savage.”

Another commented, “They should make her resign or whatever. Smoking in parliament is crazy and disrespectful.”

“Looks like she was trying to add some ‘smoke and mirrors’ to the healthcare debate,” a user on X wrote.

“Seriously, she could not wait for a bathroom break? Even the cokeheads have that much self-control,” another remarked.

What is your opinion on this video?