Fernando Botero Zea

Who is Fernando Botero Zea?

Fernando Botero Zea is a Colombian politician who served in several public positions, including as Defense Minister under President Ernesto Samper, for whom he was campaign manager in his presidential run. Botero was elected as a member of the Colombian Congress for the Colombian Liberal Party. He is a son of the internationally recognized painter and sculptor Fernando Botero. He was convicted of financial issues associated with the campaign's having accepted money from the Cali Cartel, and served nearly three years in prison. Losing an appeal in 2007 on a second charge, Botero is staying in Mexico, where his citizenship prevents him from being extradited.