Colombian Congresswoman caught vaping in parliament amid healthcare debate; apologises after backlash

The leader was discreetly using a vape pen mid-session, unaware that the camera was on her.

Colombian Congresswoman caught vaping in parliament

Parliaments worldwide often witness unexpected drama. Colombia recently joined the list with a moment that went viral. During a heated debate on improving the country’s healthcare system, Bogota Congresswoman Cathy Juvinao of the Green Alliance Party was caught vaping in parliament on December 17.

In the now-viral clip, Juvinao is seen discreetly using a vape pen during the session, unaware of the camera. Once she realised it, she hastily attempted to conceal the device. The video has sparked widespread outrage in Colombia, with many questioning the appropriateness of her actions during such a critical discussion.

Watch the video:

🇨🇴 In Colombia, Congresswoman Cathy Juvinao was caught secretly vaping during a parliamentary session discussing healthcare reform. pic.twitter.com/NRmrFBQB9b

— Update NEWS (@UpdateNews724) December 19, 2024

The video went viral, and netizens started flooding the comments section.

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One user wrote, “During a discussion about healthcare reform is savage.” Another user commented, “They should make her resign or whatever. Smoking in parlament is crazy and disrespectful.”

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A third user said, “Looks like she was trying to add some ‘smoke and mirrors’ to the healthcare debate.”

Another user made an art of her using the vape.

Váyase a soplar, Fuminao.
Le quedó grande la curul. pic.twitter.com/NNreegKKgD

— Cristian’t  de Pegasus 🦄🪽 (@sapo90hpta) December 19, 2024

Juvinao addressed the incident on X, offering an apology for her conduct. She stated, “I apologise 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.” She assured her followers that she remains committed to defending her stance in the House with the same determination and logic as always.

Me disculpo con la ciudadanía por lo que pasó ayer en plenaria, no me sumaré al mal ejemplo que por estos días embriaga el discurso público y no se repetirá. Tengan la certeza de que hoy seguiré dando la batalla desde la Cámara con los argumentos y la rigurosidad de siempre.

— Cathy Juvinao 🏛🇨🇴 (@CathyJuvinao) December 18, 2024

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The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the behaviour expected from public representatives and the impact of such actions during crucial debates.

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