Colombia is conducting its presidential election, with 14 candidates on the ballot, but the race has narrowed to three main contenders. The election is viewed as a referendum on the policies of outgoing President Gustavo Petro, occurring ten years after a peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc). Despite the agreement, violence has surged, highlighted by the assassination of presidential hopeful Miguel Uribe Turbay at a political rally.
Leading the polls is Iván Cepeda, an ally of Petro, who advocates for continuing the 'total peace' initiative aimed at negotiating with remaining rebel groups. His opponents, Abelardo de la Espriella and Paloma Valencia, propose a more aggressive approach to combat armed groups, drawing inspiration from tactics used in El Salvador’s war on gangs. Both candidates have expressed their admiration for former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has urged Latin American countries to intensify their efforts against criminal organizations.
If no candidate secures over 50% of the votes, a runoff will occur in June. Voter sentiments vary, with some supporting a hardline approach to violence, while others advocate for dialogue and progressive reforms to address the underlying issues of conflict in Colombia.