In a recent statement, Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro repudiated his brother’s claims that both siblings had been diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome “when we were children”. In his address, the president contended that such a diagnosis is impossible given that the disease was only first officially recognized in 1994 when he was already 34 years old.
Petro’s statement was in reply to ongoing calls made by opposition leaders for the president to undergo a medical examination due to his absence from numerous official engagements. Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is characterized by difficulties in social communication and behavioral patterns that can be repetitive and intense.
The president’s words have put the spotlight on his brother Juan Fernando Petro’s assertions which have drawn criticism from government officials, causing a firestorm of debate. Petro did not give any further comment or explanation, simply refuting the diagnosis and questioning his brother’s statement.
For Colombians now more than ever, it is essential to understand the gravity of this issue that continues to generate an immense amount of reaction and dispute. It is unclear if the voices espousing the need for the president to take a medical examination will be quieted, or if the alleged Asperger’s syndrome diagnosis will remain a source of contention in the country. What remains certain is President Petro’s confidence in his firm denial of his brother’s diagnosis.
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