An investigation into Senator Martha Peralta is casting doubt on the future of her indigenous seat in the Colombian Senate. The inquiry’s outcome – whether it leads to an arrest warrant or conviction – will determine if she retains her position. There is uncertainty regarding whether the “empty chair” rule would be applied to her seat for the next four-year term should she be unable to continue serving. The “empty chair” rule refers to a procedure where a vacant seat remains formally unfilled until a replacement is designated. This situation raises questions about representation for indigenous communities in the Senate. The investigation and potential consequences are being closely watched by observers of Colombian politics and indigenous rights advocates.