Former President of Colombia, Iván Duque Márquez, has made an unexpected entrance into the world of electronic music, adopting the moniker “DJ DUQ” as he attempts to launch a post-political career as a disc jockey.
Duque, who served as Colombia’s head of state from 2018 to 2022 under the conservative Democratic Centre Party, has recently been spotted behind the DJ decks in several video clips circulating on social media platforms such as TikTok and X (formerly Twitter).
In one clip, Duque is seen wearing a black t-shirt boldly branded with the phrase “DJ DUQ” as he gestures to an energetic crowd.
According to Colombian news outlet La República, Duque made his DJ debut earlier this year at an event in Cartagena, aimed at celebrating young entrepreneurs.
Footage from the February occasion shows the former president enthusiastically engaging with the audience, marking a stark departure from his once-reserved political persona.
Duque’s tenure in office was marked by considerable controversy. Human rights groups frequently criticised his administration for the excessive use of force by Colombian security agencies—especially during the 2021 Colombian National Strike, where demonstrators decried economic inequality, corruption, and police brutality.
International observers also raised alarms over the ongoing violence against social leaders and activists during his leadership. By the end of his presidency in 2022, watchdogs estimate that over 945 social leaders had been assassinated across the country.
Despite his polarising political legacy, Duque’s transition into the music scene has sparked curiosity and debate both at home and abroad. While some see his move as an unusual but harmless reinvention, others view it as an attempt to rebrand his public image in the wake of a contentious presidency.
His unexpected career turn joins a growing list of global political figures seeking relevance in unconventional post-leadership paths.
Duque’s move comes amid reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s youngest daughter is allegedly living in Paris and also pursuing a career as a DJ.
As DJ DUQ continues to build his presence in the entertainment world, many will be watching closely to see whether his beats resonate louder than the echoes of his political past.
