USO would halt oil operations if the board continues to back Ricardo Roa as Ecopetrol president
Portafolio Journalist 03/26/2026 10:29 Updated: 03/26/2026 10:32
TL;DR
- The USO union is demanding the removal of Ecopetrol President Ricardo Roa Barragán.
- The union warns of significant reputational and financial risks to Ecopetrol due to investigations against Roa.
- Potential intervention by US agencies like OFAC or SEC is a serious concern.
- The USO plans to use protests and active participation in shareholder assemblies to press its demands.
- A strike is considered a last resort, but operational disruptions are possible if concerns are not addressed.
- Ecopetrol's stability is crucial for Colombia's national budget and regional economies.
- The union believes the board's corporate governance lacks independence.
- The current international context with high oil prices is seen as a temporary benefit.
- Ecopetrol is a major contributor to the nation's revenue, with over 180 trillion pesos transferred in the last five years.