Colombia 2026 Election: Cepeda and Espriella dispute 2nd round

Who are the candidates running in the second round in Colombia?

The dispute is between Iván Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella. Cepeda is a left-wing senator, former human rights activist and ally of current president Gustavo Petro. Espriella is a right-wing nationalist lawyer who defends a much stricter stance against crime and guerrillas, representing the opposition to the current government.

What is the role of the agreement with the FARC in this election?

The peace pact signed in 2016 with the FARC guerrillas, which celebrates its tenth anniversary, is the center of the debate. Although it has reduced the extreme violence of decades ago, many Colombians feel the promise of pacification has not been fulfilled. This feeling of frustration drives the right-wing candidacy, which criticizes the concessions made to criminals in the past.

What are each candidate’s security proposals?

Iván Cepeda defends the continuation of ‘Total Peace’, focused on negotiations with remaining armed groups and social reforms. Abelardo de la Espriella focuses on direct repression, drawing inspiration from Nayib Bukele’s El Salvador model. He proposes the use of mega-prisons and a harsh offensive against guerrillas and drug traffickers, without new negotiations.

What is the public security situation currently like in the country?

Colombia is experiencing a scenario of stagnation in violence. Although the rates are not as high as in the early 2000s, the rate of 25 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants is still considered epidemic by the World Health Organization. Recent crimes against politicians and bomb attacks have once again frightened the population, making security the central theme of the vote.

Is there external influence on the Colombian electoral process?

Yes, geopolitics is present. American President Donald Trump declared support for Abelardo de la Espriella, which was classified by Colombian President Gustavo Petro as an attempt at interference. The election will decide whether Colombia will maintain Petro’s current agenda or whether it will return to a security path more in line with Washington’s policies.