'Colombia deserves a new kind of leadership,' Mauricio Cárdenas said.

Former Minister of Finance and Public Credit, Mauricio Cárdenas , stated in an opinion column in the newspaper EL TIEMPO that the country needs new leadership capable of overcoming difficult times in various economic, social, and political spheres.

" I am increasingly convinced that Colombia deserves a new kind of leadership, one capable of facing difficult times, promoting real change, and pushing for reforms without sowing the seeds of new conflict ," he said.

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And he added: " Colombia deserves judgment, firmness, and experience. And it deserves a leader who generates tranquility, not violence. A leader who distinguishes himself through good treatment, not harsh words. One who generates trust instead of uncertainty ."

The characteristics of a leader

1. A true leader is one who includes, not one who divides: He mentions that true leadership " doesn't rely on terms like rich and poor, nor does it negate its opponents and detractors ," but rather must include the businessman, the peasant, the farmer, and also the politician. " A true leader talks less and listens more. Most of the time, they don't have the answers to everything, and that's why they rely on people who know the most about different topics, recognizing their own limitations and valuing others ," he mentioned.

2. The leader is not there for self-aggrandizement, but to build: Cardenas explained that teamwork is key. " It makes no sense to blame others for failures, reaping only applause: we must empower and build new leadership. This also develops the mystique of being part of an organization or government, generating loyalty among employees and defense of institutions ."

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3. We must lead with a vision for the future: According to the former Minister of Finance, good institutions are not static: they transform and modernize. " The most successful leaders are those capable of adapting to changing needs, and they think of institutions as something to invest in so that societies can reap the benefits in the future ."

4. Leadership must be generous with others, but demanding with oneself: he mentions that this should translate into long work days, flexibility, and willingness. " Comprehensive leadership brings together agendas that, although they may seem opposed, are interconnected. What is learned by supporting education and culture (two sectors in which my father was very actively involved) enriches union and business management ."

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5. Leadership must be honest and transparent: According to the economist, a good leader must put values ​​and principles first; this generates respect and credibility. " A leader who has to repeat phrases like 'I'm not corrupt,' 'I act transparently,' or 'it's someone else's fault' is not a true leader ."

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