Colombians head to the polls with peace efforts, economy on agenda
Colombians are preparing to vote in a presidential election that highlights the country's deep political divisions. Candidates are focusing on peace efforts and economic recovery, with Ivan Cepeda leading the leftist coalition and facing challenges from right-wing candidates. The election is expected to result in a runoff, as no candidate is likely to secure a majority of votes.
- ▪Colombians will vote in the first round of a presidential election amid significant polarization.
- ▪Ivan Cepeda is leading the leftist Historic Pact coalition, focusing on social programs and peace negotiations.
- ▪Right-wing candidates emphasize security and economic revival, with proposals to combat crime and reduce taxes.
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Colombians head to the polls with peace efforts, economy on agendaSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxPublished May 29, 2026, 07:04 PMUpdated May 29, 2026, 07:04 PMBOGOTA, May 29 - Colombians are set to vote on Sunday in what is likely the first round of a presidential election, amid deep polarization between those seeking continuity with the leftist government and those pushing for a shift to restore security and economic growth.Ivan Cepeda, the candidate for the leftist Historic Pact coalition, has led in polling on his pledges to expand President Gustavo Petro's social programs and pursue peace with illegal armed groups to end a six-decade internal conflict, though he is expected to face an uphill battle in an eventual second round.Cepeda, a 63-year-old philosopher…
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