Colombia Election Campaigns End Amid Tight Race and Rising Political Tensions

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Barranquilla: Colombia’s main presidential candidates have wrapped up their election campaigns with large rallies across the country ahead of the May 31 vote, setting the stage for a highly polarised contest that is expected to extend into a June runoff.

Leftist candidate Iván Cepeda leads the final stretch of the race by a narrow margin, according to recent polls, but projections suggest he could lose in a second-round vote against either of his two right-wing rivals. He has campaigned on continuing the social reforms of outgoing President Gustavo Petro but faces criticism over security concerns and the government’s “total peace” policy with armed groups.

His main challenger, businessman and lawyer Abelardo De La Espriella, has focused his campaign on tougher security measures, tax cuts, and stronger military action against criminal groups and drug trafficking. However, he has also faced scrutiny over past legal work involving controversial figures.

In third place is Paloma Valencia, who has campaigned on reducing taxes, expanding the military, and cutting the size of government, with backing from former president Álvaro Uribe.

The campaign season has been marked by sharp political divisions, with analysts warning that the post-election period could be dominated by aggressive rhetoric and increased tensions between rival camps.

Whoever wins will face major national challenges, including security, poverty reduction, economic stability, and informal employment, as Colombia continues to grapple with long-standing social and political issues.

Pic Credit: AFP