The Superior Tribunal of Bogotá has ordered the immediate release of former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe Vélez, overturning the house arrest imposed on him following a conviction. Uribe was sentenced in the first instance to 12 years of house arrest for bribery and witness tampering. The court's decision allows Uribe to face the second instance of his criminal process in freedom while his appeal is being resolved. The ruling criticized the previous judge Sandra Heredia, who had ordered the detention. Uribe expressed his intention to dedicate "every minute of his freedom to the freedom of Colombia" following the ruling. The case marks a historic moment as Uribe is the first former Colombian president to receive a criminal sentence. Political reactions have been mixed, with some supporters celebrating the decision and opponents, including Senator Iván Cepeda, who is recognized as a victim in the case, questioning the court's ruling. Legal experts noted that the release order suggests the initial judge lacked sufficient knowledge of criminal law principles. The case remains open as the appeal process continues.