Will there be Prohibition in Colombia for the 2026 presidential elections?

In preparation for the second-round presidential elections scheduled for Sunday, June 21, 2026, Colombian authorities have announced the implementation of a nationwide "dry law" known as *Ley Seca*. This measure aims to ensure public safety and order during the voting process by restricting the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages across the country. The decision comes amid heightened security concerns and the need to prevent any disruptions on election day.

The *Ley Seca* will take effect starting at 6:00 PM on Saturday, June 20, and remain in place until noon on Monday, June 22, 2026. During this period, the commercialization and consumption of alcoholic drinks will be prohibited in both public spaces and authorized businesses. These restrictions apply uniformly throughout the nation, with specific enforcement measures tailored to each region based on local conditions and requirements.

In Bogotá, the capital city, the implementation of the dry law has been adjusted to begin earlier than in other parts of the country. According to Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán, the restriction on alcohol sales and consumption will start at midnight on Friday, June 19, and continue until noon on Monday, June 22. This early initiation is attributed to the complexity of the electoral process and the need to concentrate all available police resources on ensuring the security of the voting operation.

The government's decision to enforce the *Ley Seca* reflects broader efforts to maintain stability and prevent potential incidents that could undermine the integrity of the election. Authorities have emphasized the importance of maintaining public order, particularly in areas where large gatherings and high voter turnout are anticipated. Additional security operations have been deployed in cities such as Cali, where officials have confirmed the timing of the dry law and outlined special measures to support the electoral process.

Violations of the *Ley Seca* carry significant financial penalties under the National Code of Security and Citizen Coexistence. Fines range from approximately $233,454 to over $1.8 million, depending on the severity of the infraction. These sanctions apply to both individuals and business owners found in violation of the law. Enforcement agencies have pledged strict monitoring across all regions to ensure compliance with the decree.

The announcement of the *Ley Seca* has sparked discussions about its effectiveness in preventing disorder during critical political events. While some officials argue that the measure is necessary to safeguard the democratic process, others question whether such restrictions might inadvertently affect legitimate social activities or economic sectors reliant on alcohol sales. Nonetheless, the government maintains that the primary objective is to guarantee the peaceful conduct of the election.

As the date of the second-round vote approaches, additional logistical preparations are underway. Electoral commissions are working closely with municipal authorities to coordinate security protocols and public awareness campaigns. These efforts include disseminating information about the *Ley Seca*, reinforcing checkpoints, and deploying mobile units to monitor compliance in high-risk zones.

Looking ahead, the enforcement of the *Ley Seca* will likely be evaluated after the election concludes. Officials have indicated that the duration of the measure may be extended or modified based on the prevailing circumstances following the vote. Regardless of the outcome, the implementation of the dry law underscores the government’s commitment to upholding public order during one of the most crucial moments in Colombia’s political calendar.