The article centers on a legal dispute involving La Rolita, a Bogotá public transport operator, and TransMilenio, the city's transport authority, regarding the operation of the Ciudad BolÃvar cable car. A lawsuit, filed by former council member LucÃa Bastidas, challenges the contract's legality due to the lack of a public tender.
TransMilenio is considering terminating the contract early, proposing a compliance agreement to resolve the lawsuit. This move has surprised some within the city administration due to past criticisms of the court's decisions. A recusal request against the presiding judge, Carlos Enrique Palacios, was denied.
The inter-administrative contract between TransMilenio and La Rolita, signed under the previous mayor's administration, is for 66 months. The cable car's operation has experienced issues, including service interruptions and damage to cabins.
The judge, after accepting the lawsuit, implemented precautionary measures ordering the selection process for a new operator. This decision has been appealed by the city, who argues the judge is overstepping its jurisdiction. The article indicates the judge’s actions are based on allegations of serious irregularities to protect the city’s assets.
The potential termination of the contract would have significant consequences for La Rolita, affecting its revenue, and potentially leading to lawsuits from suppliers and over 200 employees, predominantly women.