Ignacio Santos, director of the Teletica news program, announced his retirement shortly before the final debate of the current electoral campaign. The announcement came as a surprise to many, as he revealed his decision just minutes before the event began.
Santos shared that his main anxiety leading up to the debate was knowing it would be his last. After the debate concluded at the Marco Picado studio in La Sabana, members of the press approached him for further details about his departure from television.
“Ya tengo mucho tiempo de estar en esto,” said Santos, explaining that he has been involved in this work for a long time. He clarified that his retirement is not due to health reasons and noted that he has led at least 25 debates throughout various election cycles, including primaries and both rounds of presidential elections. He mentioned having numerous anecdotes from these experiences—so many that it would take at least an hour to recount them all.
Reflecting on his final debate, Santos stated: “Por ahora me quedo con una profunda satisfacción, un debate respetuoso, intenso, pero donde se propusieron ideas en una forma absolutamente cívica.” He emphasized that this exchange was conducted respectfully and focused on presenting ideas in a civic manner ahead of Sunday’s vote.
Although he confirmed this was his last debate, Santos did not rule out returning if a second round is required by election results. In such a case, he may moderate another forum between the two remaining candidates.
For now, Santos indicated that his professional routine continues as usual; he told reporters he would begin his next workday with an interview scheduled for 6 a.m.
