Colombia’s incoming Environment Minister, Fabio Arjona, has stated his opposition to the lethal control of hippopotamuses. This decision revives a long-standing and contentious debate regarding the management of the animals, descended from those originally imported by Pablo Escobar. The previous administration considered lethal measures as a potential solution to the environmental challenges posed by the growing hippo population. Opponents of lethal control argue for alternative, non-violent methods of population management and relocation. This policy shift signals a change in approach from the current government of De la Espriella. The controversy highlights the difficult balance between conservation efforts and animal welfare concerns in Colombia.