Colombia Holds Presidential Election Amid Heightened Violence

Colombians are voting in a presidential election to determine the country's future leadership, with the contest occurring during the most severe wave of violence in a decade.

Key points

• Over 408,000 members of the public security forces have been deployed across the country to ensure safety during the electoral process.
• The election features 14 candidates, with the winner set to serve a term from 2026 to 2030.
• Polls indicate that a runoff election will likely be required on June 21, as no candidate is expected to secure an outright majority in the first round.
• The campaign period was marked by significant polarization, including the assassination of a presidential aspirant.

Why it matters

The election represents a critical juncture for Colombia as it navigates deep political divisions, a challenging fiscal environment, and persistent security threats from armed groups.