Rtvc News: a propaganda machine for Iván Cepeda in his campaign
During the presidential campaign, RTVC Noticias did not publish any critical reports about Iván Cepeda, the candidate of the Pacto Histórico backed by President Gustavo Petro. The report by La Silla Vacía reveals that RTVC, led by Hollman Morris, acted as a propaganda machine for the Petro government and Cepeda, the official candidate. By analyzing 788 articles published by RTVC during the election year and 25 TV broadcasts on Señal Colombia, the investigation found a highly biased coverage: positive towards Cepeda and negative towards opposition candidates like Abelardo De la Espriella and Paloma Valencia. In 77% of the stories mentioning Cepeda, RTVC merely repeated communications from the candidate, the campaign, or Petro, similar to how Semana magazine covered De la Espriella. The European Union’s Election Observation Mission had previously noted that RTVC’s coverage of opposing parties was limited and often negative. William Parra, director of RTVC Noticias, did not respond to La Silla Vacía’s inquiries. Additionally, despite Cepeda’s criticism of 'easy politics' involving 'unscrupulous dealings, image marketing, and cheap demagogy,' he never addressed the questionable role of
How each side covered it
The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.
progressive
center
conservative
★
How each side covered it
Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and your personalized For You feed.
The article features a collection of opinion columns published by La Silla Vacía on July 5th, covering various political topics in Colombia. One piece discusses President De la Espriella’s need to act as an 'alchemist-in-chief' to navigate political polarization through renewal, execution, experience, and narrative. Another highlights Indalecio Dangond Baquero, who facilitated financial benefits for his family’s business through state mechanisms. A third critiques the appointment of someone lacking industry experience to lead Ecopetrol, suggesting it could repeat past mistakes. Another column comments on the lack of visibility and organization during a Pride parade in Barranquilla, noting reduced efforts compared to previous years. The final piece criticizes Iván Cepeda’s approach to opposition, arguing it lacks structure and fails to engage constructively within constitutional boundaries.
Bias read (Progressive): The articles exhibit a left-leaning framing. Columns criticize conservative policies and figures, such as the potential mismanagement at Ecopetrol and the lack of organized participation in the Pride event. They emphasize structural issues, systemic change, and the importance of experienced leaders,
Why these scores (Factual 100 · Objective 100): This article accurately summarizes the primary source document, quoting directly from it without adding or omitting key details. The information presented is factually correct and aligns with the primary source. The tone is neutral and balanced, presenting the facts without bias or emotional languag
El EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 100Objective 1005 days ago
The article titled 'Estas son las caras de los miembros del empalme presidencial entre Petro y De la Espriella' by El Espectador features a photo gallery showcasing the faces of members involved in the presidential transition between Gustavo Petro and his running mate, Óscar Iván Zuluaga (De la Espriella). The piece appears to focus on visual representation rather than detailed commentary or analysis. No additional information beyond the images is provided, and there is no explicit discussion of political implications or controversies surrounding the transition. The article does not include direct quotes, interviews, or references to official statements.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a visual report on the presidential transition without overtly favoring any particular political stance. It focuses on identifying individuals involved in the transition process without providing critical analysis or taking a clear ideological position. While the subject matter—
Why these scores (Factual 100 · Objective 100): This article lists members of the presidential transition team between Petro and De la Espriella, unrelated to the agricultural subsidy scandal. It is factually accurate and remains neutral in tone.
SemanaIndependentConservativeFactual 100Objective 1005 days ago
The article reports on a meeting between Medellín Mayor Federico Gutiérrez and President-elect Abelardo De La Espriella, where they discussed priorities for Medellín under the new administration, including security, health, infrastructure, and specific projects like the Metro de la 80 and the San Antonio de Prado cable. Gutiérrez criticizes Senator Iván Cepeda, who called for 'civil disobedience' after losing the election, accusing him of threatening to incite violence and aligning with armed groups such as the FARC and ELN. Gutiérrez claims these groups seek to destabilize cities and provides examples of their activities in Medellín, including the arrest of an ELN-linked individual named 'Cuervo.'
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames Iván Cepeda’s call for 'civil disobedience' as a threat to national stability, using strong language to associate his actions with violent actors like the ELN and FARC. It emphasizes the risks posed by these groups and portrays Cepeda as a figure who would incite chaos, which is a
Why these scores (Factual 100 · Objective 100): The article focuses on political discussions between De la Espriella and Gutiérrez, unrelated to the agricultural subsidy issue. It presents facts accurately and remains neutral in tone.
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 100Objective 1007 days ago
Abelardo De La Espriella, the newly elected president of Colombia, congratulated Keiko Fujimori on her victory in the 2026 Peruvian elections through a social media post. He expressed his joy at the prospect of future cooperation between their countries, emphasizing shared values such as democracy, freedom, the rule of law, and respect for institutions. In the message, he stated that both nations would work together to strengthen bilateral relations and benefit their citizens. The post was accompanied by a video showing their virtual conversation.
Bias read (Center): The article reports on a congratulatory message from a Colombian politician to a Peruvian election winner, focusing on shared democratic values and potential international collaboration. There is no evident ideological slant, loaded language, or one-sided sourcing. The framing remains neutral, with郭
Why these scores (Factual 100 · Objective 100): The article discusses De la Espriella's public congratulations to Keiko Fujimori, unrelated to the agricultural subsidy scandal. It provides factual information and maintains an objective stance.
El EspectadorIndependentProgressiveFactual 100Objective 10010 days ago
The article reports that De la Espriella will begin operations from La Guajira during the first week, indicating that President Petro has a leader for transition. The headline suggests a strategic move by De la Espriella, possibly related to governance or administrative functions, which could signal changes in leadership or operational focus within the administration.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the appointment of a 'leader of transition' as a positive development under President Petro, implying continuity and effective management. The emphasis on De la Espriella starting operations from La Guajira suggests a strategic shift that aligns with leftist policies focused on re
Why these scores (Factual 100 · Objective 100): This article reports on De la Espriella's early actions as president-elect, unrelated to the agricultural subsidy scandal. The information presented is factually correct and the tone is neutral.
La Silla VacíaIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 905 days ago
The article covers several key developments in Colombia’s political transition. It reports that President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella has appointed Fabio Arjona, a former environmental official, as Minister of Environment, marking a shift from the previous administration’s community-focused approach. The first meeting between outgoing and incoming governments was described as amicable, with plans for continued coordination. The Attorney General rejected a request to delay the investigation into former president Álvaro Uribe over alleged crimes against humanity, which Uribe called politically motivated. Vice President-elect José Manuel Restrepo urged the current government not to introduce a new tax reform, while the incoming finance minister criticized past fiscal policies. Additionally, the Council of State temporarily suspended a resolution allowing negotiations with the Second Marquetalia rebel group.
Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple political developments without overtly favoring any side. While it includes statements from various stakeholders (such as Uribe’s accusation of political persecution), it does not take a clear ideological stance. The framing remains balanced, presenting facts and quotes
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): The article provides factual updates on ministerial appointments and the transition process between governments. It accurately reports the Fiscalía's rejection of the delay request for Álvaro Uribe's investigation. The tone is neutral and informative throughout, with no clear bias or editorializing.
La Silla VacíaIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 959 days ago
The newly elected Vice President, José Manuel Restrepo, has requested that the National Protection Unit (UNP) halt new appointments until the government transition concludes on August 7. He argues that Decree 0670 of 2026 allows changes to protection schemes just before the outgoing administration leaves office. Restrepo asked for technical, financial, and legal information regarding ongoing selection and hiring processes. He emphasized that the protection of the current president and their team should not be determined in the final days of an outgoing administration. This is the second time Restrepo has requested the suspension of appointments, previously addressing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The incoming government’s 'Anti-Corruption Handover' will be led by Restrepo, while the current administration has appointed Finance Minister Germán Ávila to coordinate the transition. President Gustavo Petro reiterated his commitment to govern until August 6.
Bias read (Center): The article presents Restrepo's request to suspend appointments as a procedural matter related to the government transition. It includes direct quotes from Restrepo and provides context about the transition process, including both the incoming and outgoing administrations’ roles. There is no overtly
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 95): The article accurately reports Restrepo's request to suspend appointments and provides context about the transition process. It maintains neutrality by presenting facts without taking sides. The only minor issue is the brief mention of 'empalme anticorrupción' which isn't detailed in the primary sou
La Silla VacíaIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 926 days ago
The article reports on the transition process to the new Colombian government, focusing on the appointment of Miguel Gómez Martínez as the incoming Minister of Finance. Gómez is described as a member of the Conservative Party, linked to the elected senator Enrique Gómez Martínez, who leads the conservative party Salvación Nacional. This follows the announcement of Rodrigo Lara as the Minister of Interior. The transition team, led by Vice President-elect José Manuel Restrepo, includes several advisors such as Jerome Sanabria, Jaime Beltrán, Elsa Noguera, María Isabel Campo, and Carlos Alonso Lucio. The finance minister, Germán Ávila, maintains strict confidentiality, stating they will only release information required by law. Meanwhile, the team of Abelardo de la Espriella held its first working meeting with over 1,300 participants. The formal transition process is set to begin tomorrow at 10 AM with a meeting between the two governments' teams at the Casa de Nariño.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the transition process in a balanced manner, providing factual information about appointments and the structure of the transition team without overtly favoring any particular political faction. It describes both the Conservative-aligned appointments and the broader transition, a
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 92): The article provides detailed and accurate information about the transition team and their first meeting. It aligns with the primary source document's descriptions of the transition process. The tone is professional and objective.
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 807 days ago
The Colombian Minister of Finance, German Avila, criticized the newly elected president, Abelardo De La Espriella, for announcing USD $60 million in non-reimbursable funding from the Inter-American Development Bank (BID) for the transition between governments. Avila called this claim 'an absurdity,' stating that such funds are not needed for a government handover and do not align with Colombia's economic reality. He suggested these resources might instead be allocated to investment projects, which have been used by the current administration under President Gustavo Petro. The transition process, set to begin on July 2, has already seen tensions emerge, particularly around allegations of corruption investigations and the new government's 'Arca de Noé' program involving 1,300 people. Avila emphasized that his government would not accept threats or coercion during the transition.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives: the incoming government's announcement of funding and the outgoing government's skepticism. It does not favor one side over the other, providing quotes from both parties involved in the transition. There is no evident bias in the framing or sourcing.
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 80): The article accurately reports on Claudia López’s position and interactions with De la Espriella. While it presents her statements clearly, it also includes some emotionally charged language, slightly reducing objectivity.
La Silla VacíaIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 754 days ago
The article discusses the unusual behavior of Colombian political figures during the transition period after the June 2026 presidential election. Abelardo de la Espriella, the elected president, has decided not to attend the traditional inauguration ceremony at the Casa de Nariño before taking office, marking a first in recent history. This contrasts with the usual practice where outgoing presidents greet incoming leaders. Meanwhile, former President Gustavo Petro initially congratulated the results but later expressed doubts, eventually accepting the outcome under protest. Ivan Cepeda, a prominent opposition figure, challenged the legitimacy of the election by contesting 33,000 voting tables and demanded transparency regarding De la Espriella’s U.S. citizenship and alleged ties to intelligence agencies. He warned that if these issues were not resolved by August 7, De la Espriella’s inauguration would be considered illegal and illegitimate, and he threatened to pursue civil disobedience. The article highlights the tensions and irregularities surrounding the electoral process and the legitimacy of the new administration.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the actions of Ivan Cepeda and Gustavo Petro as legitimate challenges to the electoral process, emphasizing their concerns over transparency and legality. It portrays De la Espriella’s potential eligibility as questionable due to his U.S. citizenship and alleged foreign ties, andC
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 75): The article accurately reports De La Espriella's decision not to visit the presidential palace before taking office, noting this is unprecedented. It provides historical context about previous transitions while maintaining a relatively neutral tone though some interpretive analysis is present.
SemanaIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 758 days ago
The article discusses the upcoming swearing-in of the new Colombian Congress on July 20 and outlines the political landscape ahead of four years of legislative work. The Pacto Histórico, which won the most votes in March’s election but lost key figures like Iván Cepeda, now faces a diminished role as the governing coalition led by Abelardo De La Espriella takes shape. Rodrigo Lara, the designated Minister of Interior, has sent a message to the opposition, emphasizing respect for minority voices while warning against corruption and threats to national security. He stressed that the government will maintain open dialogue and institutional mechanisms to ensure democratic debate, while targeting those who engage in criminal activities or intimidate citizens. The article highlights the political tensions between the ruling coalition and the opposition, particularly the Pacto Histórico, and notes ongoing efforts to finalize agreements on legislative structures.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the government's approach as one of strong democratic engagement and protection against corruption and violence, aligning with progressive values. It emphasizes the legitimacy of the ruling coalition and portrays the opposition as less empowered, though it does acknowledge their '
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 75): The article presents factual information about Rodrigo Lara's role and the political landscape post-election. However, it includes some biased language such as 'extrema derecha' which may imply a political stance.
SemanaIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 709 days ago
The Pacto Histórico, a coalition in Colombia, has officially recognized former presidential candidate Iván Cepeda and current President Gustavo Petro as leaders of the opposition against the newly elected government of Abelardo De La Espriella. This declaration follows a meeting at the Casa de Nariño where both figures committed to leading a 'peaceful' opposition. Cepeda emphasized his dedication to defending progressive reforms and social justice, while Petro assured that the opposition would focus on democratic and social initiatives. The Pacto Histórico highlighted their unity and commitment to continuing their political project alongside the Colombian people, stressing the importance of strengthening grassroots movements and organizing future campaigns.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the opposition led by Petro and Cepeda as a progressive force defending social reforms and democracy against an 'extreme right' government. The language emphasizes solidarity, peaceful resistance, and the continuation of leftist policies, aligning with left-wing values. The focus,
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 70): The article accurately reports on the Pacto Histórico recognizing Petro and Cepeda as opposition leaders. The language shows some bias by emphasizing 'extrema derecha' and framing the opposition as 'pacífica'.
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 803 days ago
The article discusses the anticipated shift in relations between Colombia's national government and the city of Bogotá under the new presidency of Abelardo De La Espriella. After four years of tensions during Gustavo Petro's administration, Bogotá hopes for improved cooperation on strategic projects like infrastructure and security. The meeting between De La Espriella and Bogotá's mayor, Carlos Fernando Galán, signaled a commitment to prioritize Bogotá in the new government's agenda. However, past conflicts, such as disagreements over the design and funding of the first line of the Metro, highlighted deep divisions between the national government and the city. These disputes had financial implications, with Bogotá bearing some costs due to delays in national disbursements.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both perspectives—Bogotá's emphasis on respecting contracts and the national government's push to revise project designs—without overtly favoring one side. It focuses on factual descriptions of tensions and agreements rather than evaluative language or biased sourcing.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): This article provides a detailed account of Bogotá’s expectations under De La Espriella, including quotes from both the president-elect and the mayor. It maintains a neutral tone, presenting both sides of the relationship between Bogotá and the national government. Factually sound with minimal bias,
La Silla VacíaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 805 days ago
The transition between Colombia's outgoing and incoming governments has officially begun with the first meeting between Germán Ávila, the current Minister of Finance, and José Manuel Restrepo, the designated representative of the new government. The process starts amid President Gustavo Petro's absence on a trip to Italy and as Congress prepares to begin a new legislative term. Restrepo had previously outlined six conditions for the transition, emphasizing that it should not be limited to a 'simple transfer of documents.' These included appointing two officials per ministry as liaisons, establishing a schedule for meetings, creating mechanisms to track information, defining handling procedures for sensitive data, extending the transition until July 27, and involving the Office of the Attorney General and the Comptroller General. In response, Ávila confirmed the government would initiate the transition in an 'ordered, transparent, responsible, and respectful' manner. The government issued a directive outlining the rules for the transition, including forming a committee, setting up work plans, sectoral subcommittees, working tables, and recording all meetings. The team accompanying副总
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced account of both parties' positions and actions during the transition process, without overtly favoring either side. It includes quotes from both Restrepo and Ávila, outlines their respective demands and responses, and describes the procedural steps being taken by the.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): Describes the first meeting of the transition process, matching the primary source. Maintains balance in reporting both sides' expectations.
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 806 days ago
The article reports on the formal start of the transition process between the outgoing Petro administration and the incoming administration led by President-elect José Manuel Restrepo. Minister of Finance and Acting President Germán Ávila responded to a letter from Restrepo, confirming the initiation of the transition procedures. Ávila emphasized that the transition would be orderly, transparent, and respectful of democratic institutions, aligning with presidential directives. The first meeting between Restrepo and Ávila was scheduled at the Casa de Nariño to establish communication channels, methodology, and timelines for information exchange. Ávila stressed the importance of transparency and institutional responsibility during the handover, ensuring the new government is well-informed about the current administration’s status.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the transition process, focusing on procedural aspects and official statements without overtly favoring either side. It emphasizes institutional integrity and adherence to legal frameworks, which suggests a neutral framing. While the topic is politically-ch
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): Confirms the formal start of the transition process, aligning with the primary source. Maintains objectivity in reporting the response from Ávila.
La Silla VacíaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 807 days ago
The Colombian minister of Finance, Germán Ávila, spoke about the transition process that will begin with the newly elected president, Abelardo de la Espriella. Ávila emphasized that the transition would strictly follow legal requirements and that there would be no joint governance during this period. He highlighted that the previous government under Gustavo Petro received support from 12.95 million votes, referencing the results of the recent election. The transition was described as a handover of information rather than a political debate. Ávila mentioned plans to submit a new tax reform proposal by July 20th, similar to one previously introduced but not passed. Additionally, two members of De la Espriella’s cabinet have already been announced: Rodrigo Lara as Minister of the Interior and Miguel Gómez Martínez as Minister of Finance.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the transition process, quoting statements from Ávila and mentioning the electoral results and upcoming reforms without overtly favoring any side. It includes references to both the outgoing and incoming administrations and does not exhibit clear bias in ph
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article accurately reports Ávila's statements about the transition process, citing his emphasis on legal compliance and the strict timeline. However, it omits some context from the primary source, such as the broader political tensions and Cepeda's accusations against De la Espriella. The tone r
La Silla VacíaIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 809 days ago
Presidente Gustavo Petro respondió en una publicación en X a José Manuel Restrepo, el vicepresidente electo encargado de liderar el 'empalme anticorrupción' entre el antiguo y el nuevo gobierno. Petro destacó su mandato que finaliza el 6 de agosto a las doce de la noche y mencionó la experiencia previa de Restrepo en el Ministerio de Hacienda bajo el gobierno de Iván Duque, comparándolo con 'devolverles el gobierno'. La respuesta surgió tras una solicitud de Restrepo a la canciller Rosa Villavicencio para congelar nombramientos diplomáticos hasta la posesión del nuevo gobierno. El tema refleja tensiones dentro del gobierno sobre la transición y la continuidad institucional.
Bias read (Progressive): El artículo presenta la postura del presidente Petro como una defensa de su legado y una promesa de transición ordenada, mientras destaca la moderación de Restrepo. El lenguaje utilizado sugiere una visión progresista y crítica hacia la politización del Estado, con énfasis en la necesidad de una 'cú
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article accurately reports Petro’s response to Restrepo and includes relevant quotes and context. It maintains a balanced tone and aligns closely with the information presented in the primary source.
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 759 days ago
The article reports on a meeting between President-elect Abelardo De La Espriella and Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán during the 'Ruta de Acción de Gracias por la Patria Milagro' pilgrimage. De La Espriella emphasized his commitment to prioritizing Bogotá under his administration, promising support for the city's development and security. He expressed confidence in working collaboratively with Galán. Galán welcomed the collaboration, highlighting the importance of coordination between national and local governments. Representative José Jaime Uscátegui praised De La Espriella’s focus on Bogotá, calling for concrete actions such as military intervention for safety, infrastructure projects, and combating crime.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced discussion of the political collaboration between the president-elect and the mayor, focusing on shared goals for Bogotá's development. While there is emphasis on specific policies like militarization and infrastructure, the tone remains neutral, presenting both sides
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): The article describes a meeting between De la Espriella and Galán, including direct quotes and references to broader political initiatives. While factual, it emphasizes De la Espriella’s commitment to Bogotá and includes positive reactions from Galán, slightly leaning toward a favorable portrayal of
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 702 days ago
The elected president of Colombia, Abelardo De La Espriella, has announced plans to address the nation on Sunday, July 5th, at 8:00 PM. This marks his second televised address since winning the presidential election on June 21st and being declared the country’s new leader by the National Electoral Council. In a previous address on June 29th, he outlined his team’s efforts to coordinate the transition process, including visiting all 32 departments of the country personally. He also revealed a planned decree aimed at combating extortion, robbery, and homicide, and shared details about a $60 million non-repayable agreement with the Inter-American Development Bank (BID). De La Espriella emphasized his commitment to maintaining direct communication with citizens through digital channels during the transition period.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about De La Espriella’s upcoming address and outlines his transition plan without overtly praising or criticizing his policies. It reports on his stated intentions and actions without taking a clear ideological stance, thus maintaining a balanced frame.
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 70): The article provides factual information about De La Espriella’s planned address and his transition process, aligning with cross-source consensus. However, it includes some promotional language and lacks balance by focusing more on De La Espriella’s actions than on broader political context.
El EspectadorIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 709 days ago
The article discusses the formation of a new opposition coalition in Colombia known as 'Pacto Histórico,' which has positioned Gustavo Petro and Francia Márquez as its leading figures against President Iván Duque. The coalition represents a significant shift in Colombian politics, uniting various leftist groups under a common platform. This development could influence upcoming elections and reshape the political landscape by challenging the current administration's policies. The article highlights the growing unity among opposition forces and their potential impact on national governance.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the emergence of 'Pacto Histórico' as a progressive alliance opposing the current administration, emphasizing leftist leaders like Petro and Márquez as central figures. The focus on opposition to President Duque suggests a left-leaning perspective, highlighting the coalition's un-
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 70): The article reports that Pacto Histórico has positioned Petro and Cepeda as leaders opposing De la Espriella. While this aligns with cross-source consensus on political positioning, the lack of specific details on the nature of their opposition reduces factuality. Objectivity is lower due to potenti
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €5/month.