A Colombian lawmaker has apologized after being caught on camera vaping during a meeting of the country’s parliament to discuss health care reforms. according to USA TodayCathy Juvinao, a member of the Green Alliance party representing the city of Bogotá, was seen on camera using a vape pen as she was about to address the legislative body debating health policy changes during Tuesday’s session. In the video shared on X, the Congresswoman can be seen using the vape before turning her attention to the camera and then putting the device away while exhaling sharply.
Take a look below:
A Colombian lawmaker caught on camera vaping during a health reform meeting? pic.twitter.com/2ccHB4muPh
– Kira? (@kirawontmiss) 20 December 2024
The video quickly circulated online, prompting the Congress president to apologize on social media. In her post, Ms. Juvinao acknowledged her lapse in judgment and vowed not to repeat this behavior. “I apologize to citizens for what happened yesterday in the plenary session. I will not engage in the bad example that currently dominates public discussion and it will not be repeated,” she wrote in Spanish.
“Be assured that today too I will continue to fight the House with the same arguments and toughness as always,” she said.
according to USA TodaySmoking and vaping are banned in government buildings, including parliamentary chambers, in Colombia. Earlier this year, Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro also signed legislation aimed at curbing and regulating the sale of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices in the country.
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Meanwhile, Ms Juvinao’s actions have drawn mixed reactions on social media. While some condemned the violation of protocol, others lauded the Congresswoman’s quick acknowledgment and apology.
“It’s muscle memory. She wasn’t conscious that she was doing it. Watch how she reacts when she realizes what she’s done. Shame and discomfort. If you do it consistently it’s like a meeting. “No different than drinking coffee. I’m not saying it’s right or professional, but sometimes there are physical reasons for actions,” one user wrote.
Another commented, “Leading by example…not exactly what they had in mind for the ‘health’ reform meeting.”
