Hildebrando Vélez Galeano

Hildebrando Vélez Galeano is a prominent Colombian chemical and environmental engineer known for his influence in environmental policy and close ties with political leaders, including President Gustavo Petro and Vice President Francia Márquez. At 69 years old, he is recognized for his role in the nomination of his daughter, Irene Vélez, as the Minister of Mines and Energy, despite her lack of direct experience in the sector. Vélez has previously served as an advisor in Bogotá's environmental secretariat and is expected to join the board of Ecopetrol, Colombia's state oil company, following the recent appointment of Edwin Palma as the new Minister of Mines and Energy.