Colombian lawmaker Cathy Juvinao has apologized after a video of her vaping during a parliamentary session on healthcare reforms went viral. The incident, which occurred on December 17, stirred significant controversy. Juvinao, a member of the Green Alliance Party representing Bogotá, was caught on camera using a vape pen while preparing to address the Chamber of Representatives. The session, focused on crucial healthcare policy discussions, made her actions particularly controversial.
The video, which quickly spread online, shows Juvinao vaping before noticing the cameras. She immediately exhaled the vapor and hid the device, but the footage was already captured. In response to the backlash, Juvinao took to social media to apologize, acknowledging her lapse in judgment and promising not to repeat the behavior.
Juvinao’s actions come at a time when Colombia has recently passed stringent laws regulating the use of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, aiming to curb their growing use. Smoking and vaping are banned in government buildings, including the legislative chambers. This incident follows a broader national effort, including the signing of legislation by President Gustavo Petro earlier this year, to regulate vaping in Colombia.
Public reactions have been mixed, with some condemning her breach of protocol, while others appreciated her quick apology and acknowledgment of the mistake.
