The former director of Colombia’s emergency management agency, Ungrd, has certified that foreign rescue teams were not initially deemed necessary following a recent disaster. According to Interior Minister Rodrigo Lara, the current agency director reversed this position and authorized the acceptance of international delegations. This statement suggests a policy change regarding international aid following a leadership transition within Ungrd. The initial assessment reportedly indicated sufficient local capacity to handle the emergency. Lara’s comments imply a disagreement with the current director's decision to solicit outside assistance. This development raises questions about the need for and coordination of international disaster relief efforts in Colombia. The situation has prompted scrutiny regarding the autonomy and decision-making processes within the emergency response framework.