The Colombian government has appointed Richard Gamboa Ben-Eleazar as Director of Religious Affairs under the Ministry of the Interior, sparking controversy over the legitimacy of his religious credentials.
Gamboa, formerly known as Ricardo Rodríguez, claims to be a rabbi. However, documents show that he received his ordination from the Esoteric Theological Seminary—an online platform offering religious titles for $150. The certificate is reportedly signed by two Christian ministers.
The appointment has raised eyebrows not only due to the questionable origin of his rabbinical status, but also because of Gamboa’s past social media activity, where he has referred to Zionists as “Nazis” and “false Jews.” He has also been photographed alongside the Iranian ambassador to Colombia and has previously expressed support for anti-Israel positions.
Several Jewish organizations in Colombia have criticized the government’s decision, arguing that Gamboa does not represent the Jewish community and that his appointment undermines efforts to promote religious tolerance.
The Ministry of the Interior has not yet commented on the controversy. Gamboa, for his part, denies any wrongdoing and insists that he was properly ordained and represents a “non-Zionist Jewish tradition.”
The appointment comes amid growing scrutiny of how religious representation is handled within the Colombian government.
