The election of Wilson Díaz Sterling as Huila controller is at risk due to a lawsuit alleging ineligibility from his active notary role in the department. Carlos Andrés López, second in the shortlist, challenges the process's legality, citing constitutional violations and delays in taking office. The Huila Administrative Court will assess whether to annul the appointment.
Wilson Díaz Sterling was elected Huila controller on November 18, 2025, by the Departmental Assembly, securing 11 out of 12 possible votes from 96 candidates. Close to Governor Rodrigo Villalba, he took office amid legal controversies that emerged shortly after.
Carlos Andrés López, former controller of Villavicencio and second in the shortlist with Carlos Eduardo Tovar Galindo, filed an electoral nullity lawsuit. He argues that Díaz Sterling was ineligible for holding the position of Sole Notary of Aipe, a public role in the same department within the prior year, violating Article 272 of the Political Constitution and Law 330 of 1996. The Council of State's jurisprudence views notaries as public servants due to their role in public faith and the Executive Branch.
López also challenges Díaz Sterling's possession of office, taken on December 20, 2025, before the Fifth Notary of Neiva, 32 days after the election, exceeding the 15-calendar-day legal deadline ending December 3. The plaintiff states there was no valid justification for force majeure, such as an unproven medical incapacity or delay in notary resignation, accepted only on December 18 via Decree 1386.
Magistrate Ramiro Aponte Pino ordered the lawsuit's transfer for parties to comment on a potential provisional suspension. Díaz Sterling defends his election, claiming no incompatibility and assuming duties from January 1, 2026. If the lawsuit succeeds, it could declare nullity and require a new election, leaving the department with an acting controller.
