Sworn in three days before the disaster, the new government faces an operational, political and moral test: save lives, communicate, reach isolated areas and prepare an accountable reconstruction.
From decree to real operations
Declaring a disaster and activating the crisis room can mobilise resources faster. But an announcement is not yet a convoy, a working hospital or an open road. Decisions, delivery times and observable results must be compared.
Chocó as a measure of fairness
How quickly the state reaches rural communities in Chocó will be a central indicator. A response concentrated on highly visible cities would leave one of the vulnerabilities exposed by the earthquake untouched.
Five issues to monitor
Effective rescue access, quality of public figures, security without obstructing aid, dignified shelter and traceability of emergency contracts require long-term scrutiny. International offers should match needs expressed on the ground.