Colombians are set to cast their votes on Sunday in an election seen as one of the most divisive in years. Voters will choose between a leftist political faction that currently governs and a right-wing candidate who has gained the backing of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The election will see Senator Iván Cepeda, a noted human rights advocate and supporter of President Gustavo Petro, face off against Abelardo De La Espriella, a former criminal defense attorney. De La Espriella has pledged to take strong action against guerrilla groups and drug-trafficking organizations.
The race has garnered global interest, particularly after De La Espriella received endorsement from Trump. Trump referred to Cepeda as a ‘Radical Left Marxist,’ signaling his support for right-wing candidates in a region that appears to be moving towards the right due to concerns over mounting insecurity.
Who Are the Candidates?
Iván Cepeda, 63, currently serves as a senator and is recognized for his work with victims of Colombia’s longstanding armed conflicts. He played a pivotal role in the talks that resulted in Colombia’s historic 2016 peace deal with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), aimed at ending the conflict.
Running under President Petro’s party, Cepeda has committed to maintaining many of Petro’s initiatives. These include anti-poverty measures, land redistribution programs, and continued negotiations with armed factions.
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