Daniel Quintero Calle

Daniel Quintero Calle is a Colombian politician who served as the Mayor of Medellín from 2020 to 2023. His tenure was marked by both significant achievements and considerable controversy, shaping the political landscape of Colombia’s second-largest city.

Born in Medellín in 1980, Quintero is an engineer and entrepreneur with a background in technology and innovation. Before entering politics, he co-founded several tech companies and worked on projects related to sustainable development and social impact.

Quintero’s political career began with his appointment as Vice Minister of Information and Communications Technologies during the administration of President Juan Manuel Santos. He then ran for mayor of Medellín as an independent candidate, promising to modernize the city and address social inequalities.

His election in 2019 was a significant upset, as he defeated candidates backed by established political factions. As mayor, Quintero implemented policies focused on education, public transportation, and environmental sustainability. Notable initiatives included expanding the city’s Metro system, promoting electric vehicles, and investing in early childhood education programs.

However, Quintero’s administration was also plagued by controversy. He faced accusations of mismanagement, corruption, and authoritarian tendencies. His critics alleged that he used public resources for political gain and undermined democratic institutions. A particularly contentious issue was his handling of Empresas Públicas de Medellín (EPM), the city’s public utilities company, especially following the Hidroituango dam crisis. Allegations of improper contracts and a lack of transparency surrounding the project drew significant criticism.

Furthermore, Quintero’s communication style and his use of social media sparked debate. He was known for his direct and often confrontational approach, which some saw as populist and divisive. He was temporarily suspended from his mayoral duties in 2022 by the Inspector General for allegedly engaging in political participation during the presidential election, a violation of Colombian electoral law. He was later reinstated.

His political trajectory after leaving office remains uncertain. While his supporters praise his vision and his commitment to social justice, his detractors point to his alleged mismanagement and authoritarian style. Regardless, Daniel Quintero Calle left a notable mark on Medellín’s recent history, and his legacy continues to be debated in Colombian politics.