Colombian President Gustavo Petro has stoked tensions in the country by calling for public protests in response to a formal investigation into alleged financing violations during his 2022 presidential campaign. 

The National Electoral Council (CNE) has launched the inquiry, which involves charges against Petro, Ecopetrol CEO Ricardo Roa, and other campaign officials for allegedly exceeding legal limits on campaign financing.

The CNE's investigation has uncovered unreported contributions amounting to over COP5.3bn (approximately $1.3mn). Key findings include COP500mn from the teachers' union FECODE and COP379mn from the oil workers' union USO. 

Additionally, expenses for campaign activities, such as payments to electoral witnesses and advertising costs, were not disclosed, violating electoral regulations.

In a statement following the CNE's decision, Petro claimed that the probe signifies a "coup" against him and the 11mn voters who supported his progressive agenda. 

He asserted that "this will be resolved in the streets," suggesting that he is prepared to mobilise the public to protest against what he views as an unjust attempt to undermine his presidency.

While Petro maintains that the investigation is politically motivated, the CNE has stated that it is obligated to uphold electoral integrity. 

The Council of State has clarified that while the electoral body can impose administrative sanctions for financing violations, it lacks the authority to remove the president from office; such action would require a formal process through Congress.

The inquiry comes at a time of heightened scrutiny of Petro’s administration, with opponents alleging that his government is plagued by corruption and mismanagement. 

The Attorney General’s office is also reportedly examining potential links between campaign funds and illicit sources, which could have serious implications for the incumbent's political future.