Colombia’s Presidential Candidates Conclude Campaigning Ahead of Election
This weekend marked the end of campaigning for Colombia’s presidential candidates as the nation gears up for the election on Sunday, May 31st. Voters will be deciding who will succeed Gustavo Petro, the country’s first leftist president, whose term wraps up in August.
The road to this election has been tumultuous, marred by violence, including the tragic assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, a leading conservative candidate. Uribe was shot multiple times during a rally in Bogotá on June 7, 2025, an event that underscored the volatile atmosphere surrounding the race.
As of now, 14 candidates have registered for the presidential election, where voters will see 13 presidential and vice-presidential options on the ballot. Former left-wing Foreign Minister Luis Carrillo, although withdrawn from the race, will still appear on the printed ballots due to the timing of his withdrawal.
The upcoming election is anticipated to be a close contest between far-left Senator Iván Cepeda, right-wing lawyer Abelardo de la Espriela, and conservative Senator Paloma Valencia. With a majority of votes unlikely for any candidate, a runoff is expected on June 19th between the top two vote-getters, likely Cepeda and De la Espriela, based on poll predictions.
De la Espriela, branded as an “outsider,” concluded his campaign in Medellin, where he emphasized his commitment to combating insecurity and tackling organized crime. He notably vowed to “overthrow communism” in the country, marking a significant ideological stance as he positions himself against members of the left.
Further, his platform suggests a radical reshaping of government, proposing a 40% reduction in the size of the state and public spending. He also advocates for measures like building a large prison worth comparing to those in El Salvador, along with eradicating coca crops and implementing life sentences for child rapists.
Meanwhile, Senator Paloma Valencia wrapped up her campaign in Bogotá, aligning herself with local conservative parties. She has pushed to dismantle the previous government’s “complete peace” strategy. If victorious, Valencia plans to strengthen military and police efforts while reinstating halted energy projects. She advocates for increasing the police force significantly and improving Colombia’s state apparatus.
Valencia articulated her ambition: “I don’t want to be a president who is isolated… I aim to connect with the people to transform Colombia.” Her sentiment reflects a desire for engagement that resonates with potential voters.
On the other hand, Senator Cepeda has gained notoriety for his efforts to hold former President Alvaro Uribe accountable. He concluded his campaign in Barranquilla, promising to enhance Petro’s reforms and ensuring a focus on historically marginalized sectors. Celebrating prior successes, Cepeda expressed intentions to honor President Petro if he wins, suggesting a smooth transition of policies.
With the election fast approaching, the differing strategies and promises from each candidate present crucial choices for Colombian voters, setting the stage for a critical chapter in the country’s political narrative.
