Colombia Politics & Governance: President Abelardo de la Espriella sacked DANE director Ricardo Valencia after he said he found no anomalies in July labor statistics from Gustavo Petro’s final month, reigniting a fight over the independence and credibility of official data. Legal & Accountability: Prosecutors accused former foreign minister Laura Sarabia of abusing her power in the 2023 polygraph scandal involving her nanny, after police were allegedly ordered to question the employee about missing cash. Security & Justice: Colombia’s president moved to ease gun restrictions, arguing citizens’ right to self-defense, while reporting highlights how illegal firearms drive most firearm homicides. Bogotá Infrastructure: Three consortia applied to prequalify for Bogotá Metro Line 2, with a possible contract award in Q1 2027 and opening targeted for 2035. Foreign Policy: Colombia’s president reiterated support for Israel during a synagogue visit as the government reshapes ties with Jerusalem. Regional Spotlight: The Trump administration notified Congress it will reprogram $52 million in U.S. military aid from Europe/Middle East to Panama, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia, tying the shift to anti-drug and anti-“narco-terrorism” priorities. Sports & Culture: James Rodríguez ended his 15-year Colombia national team career at 35 after 131 caps, while Barranquilla restored “Calle del Picó” as an open-air cultural heritage site.