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.
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How each side covered it
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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 1006 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 1009 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.
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 808 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 755 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 759 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 7010 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 804 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,
SemanaIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 704 days ago
The article reports on a speech by Colombian Senator Iván Cepeda, who announced that his political coalition, the Pacto Histórico, will pursue nonviolent civil disobedience against the incoming government led by President-elect Abelardo De La Espriella. Cepeda outlined four reasons for this strategy, including alleged intentions to transfer national sovereignty to the U.S. and undermine social reforms implemented during the previous administration of Gustavo Petro. He warned of threats to constitutional rights and stated that the coalition would not recognize De La Espriella as president if these claims are substantiated. Cepeda emphasized peaceful methods, drawing parallels to historical leaders like Gandhi and Mandela, and stressed collaboration with grassroots organizations to shape the actions.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the Pacto Histórico’s planned civil disobedience as a necessary response to perceived threats to democracy and social reforms, using strong language such as 'amenazas contra la democracia' and 'presunta persecución'. The emphasis on nonviolent resistance aligns with progressive or
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 70): The article accurately reports Cepeda’s announcement of peaceful civil disobedience against De La Espriella, citing his concerns over threats to democracy and social reforms. It aligns with the cross-source consensus. However, it uses emotionally charged language like 'amenazas' and 'derrotar', whic
El EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 708 days ago
The article reports on controversy surrounding Colombian Senator Iván Cepeda, who called for 'civil disobedience' during a speech. The headline emphasizes the need to respect democracy, suggesting a tension between Cepeda's call for protest and the broader principles of democratic governance. The piece highlights the polarized reactions to his remarks, with some viewing them as a legitimate form of dissent and others as a challenge to institutional order. No specific details about the content of his speech or the exact nature of the controversy are provided beyond the general reference to 'civil disobedience.' The article appears to frame the situation as a debate over democratic values and the limits of peaceful protest.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the controversy around Cepeda’s call for civil disobedience without overtly endorsing either side. It frames the issue as a discussion about respecting democracy, which suggests a balanced approach rather than a clear ideological tilt. There is no strong emphasis on one faction,
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 70): Factuality is consistent with other articles, reporting the same controversy without new information. Objectivity is slightly better than the first article, though still leans toward critical framing of Cepeda’s actions.
El EspectadorIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 7010 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
SemanaIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 653 days ago
Gustavo Bolívar, a former director of the DPS under President Gustavo Petro, condemned an attack on his children during a match between Colombia and Ghana at the World Cup in Kansas, USA. He accused critics of using his family's image for political gain and emphasized that his children were innocent and had never provoked anyone. Bolívar stated that he has sacrificed personal wealth for politics and donated all his earnings. In response, Iván Cepeda, a Colombian politician, expressed solidarity with Bolívar, criticizing those who act out of hatred and fear, while praising Bolívar’s dignity.
Bias read (Progressive): The article discusses political figures and their responses to alleged attacks on their families, involving accusations of political misuse and references to current leaders like Gustavo Petro. The framing emphasizes solidarity among leftist politicians and criticizes opponents as 'cowards' living '
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 65): The article reports on Gustavo Bolívar's reaction to an attack on his children during a match, citing statements from both Bolívar and Iván Cepeda. It aligns with the cross-source consensus regarding the incident and their responses. However, it uses emotionally charged language ('cobardes', 'dignid
SemanaIndependentProgressiveFactual 75Objective 604 days ago
Iván Cepeda, a prominent Colombian politician, called for a 'national tribute' to President Gustavo Petro on August 6th, just before Abelardo De La Espriella is set to assume the presidency. Cepeda emphasized that this tribute would recognize Petro's coherent and successful service to the Colombian people. He reiterated his call for 'civil disobedience' against De La Espriella's incoming government, stating that they do not acknowledge him as president and explained their reasons for rejecting his leadership. Cepeda expressed confidence in confronting and defeating De La Espriella, challenging who would exhaust first—the people engaging in civil disobedience or the government issuing threats.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames Iván Cepeda’s actions and rhetoric as supportive of President Gustavo Petro and opposition to Abelardo De La Espriella, using terms like 'querido compañero presidente' and emphasizing civil disobedience as a form of resistance. The framing aligns with leftist political discourse,
Why these scores (Factual 75 · Objective 60): The article reports on Iván Cepeda’s call for a national tribute to Gustavo Petro and his opposition to Abelardo De La Espriella. It accurately reflects the content of Cepeda’s speech but presents it from a political perspective aligned with his stance. The reference to 'desobediencia civil' is expl
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 70Objective 8510 days ago
Colombia held a presidential election on June 21, resulting in Abelardo De la Espriella of the right-wing winning by a narrow margin over Iván Cepeda of the ruling Pacto Histórico coalition. The economic implications of this outcome were closely watched by financial markets, which reacted to expectations of policy changes. Following De la Espriella’s victory, the Colombian peso strengthened, causing the dollar to depreciate against the peso. Financial analysts predict further depreciation of the dollar, potentially reaching 3,370 pesos per dollar, though factors like social unrest, political uncertainty, and fiscal adjustments could limit this trend. Meanwhile, the stock market showed positive performance, driven by investor strategies based on anticipating election outcomes and their economic impacts.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of the economic effects of the election results without overtly favoring either candidate or political side. It cites financial analyses and market reactions without taking a stance on the political implications or candidates' policies.
Why these scores (Factual 70 · Objective 85): The article discusses economic implications of the election but does not mention the primary source document's content about Indalecio Dangond or Juan José Lafaurie. It focuses on currency exchange rates and market reactions, which are unrelated to the scandal. The factual claims are accurate within
SemanaIndependentConservativeFactual 65Objective 5010 days ago
Journalist Felipe Zuleta discusses potential scenarios for former Colombian President Gustavo Petro after he leaves office, suggesting that Petro might face legal challenges due to his actions against the U.S. government. Zuleta claims Petro intentionally undermined the campaign of Iván Cepeda, who lost the presidential election to Abelardo De La Espriella. He argues that Petro wants to be remembered as the only leftist president of the first 50 years of this century and that he would continue to cause trouble through social media if he cannot travel or live freely in the U.S. due to sanctions. Cepeda has accepted a seat in the Senate as part of the opposition and met with Petro, though he is expected to lead the opposition.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames Gustavo Petro negatively, using strong language such as 'jodiendo' (messing up), 'maldad' (evil), and 'alevosía' (treachery). It presents Zuleta's perspective as fact without balancing it with counterarguments or presenting Petro's side. The narrative emphasizes Petro's alleged ul
Why these scores (Factual 65 · Objective 50): This article contains speculative claims about Gustavo Petro’s potential actions and legal issues, including his alleged inability to travel due to OFAC sanctions. These are not verified facts but rather opinions. The tone is highly critical of Petro and suggests he may face legal consequences, show
El EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 50Objective 804 days ago
The article outlines key dates in the transition period between the administrations of President Gustavo Petro and Vice President Francia Márquez (De la Espriella). It highlights the timeline of handover processes, including the final days of the outgoing administration, the inauguration of the new government, and important legislative deadlines. The focus is on administrative continuity and the coordination required during the change of power. No specific controversies or partisan angles are emphasized in the summary.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual overview of the administrative transition without overtly favoring any political side. It focuses on procedural timelines rather than ideological positions, maintaining a balanced approach to the subject matter.
Why these scores (Factual 50 · Objective 80): The article mentions key dates related to the transition between administrations but provides no specific details about the scandal involving Indalecio Dangond or Juan José Lafaurie. The factual claims are limited and lack depth. The tone remains neutral, though the content is sparse and lacks conte
El EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 50Objective 808 days ago
The article discusses the political moves of De la Espriella, focusing on their alignment with Petro, the appointment of ministers, and the formation of new alliances. It outlines the strategic actions taken by De la Espriella within the current political landscape, highlighting key developments in governance and coalition-building.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual overview of political maneuvers without overtly favoring any side. It focuses on describing actions and alliances rather than presenting biased commentary or loaded language.
Why these scores (Factual 50 · Objective 80): The article outlines De la Espriella’s movements during the transition but gives no specific details about the individuals involved or the controversies surrounding them. The factual claims are minimal and not well-supported. The tone is neutral, though the content is brief and lacks context.
La Silla VacíaIndependentProgressiveFactual 30Objective 403 days ago
The article discusses the recent presidential election victory of Abelardo de la Espriella in Colombia, analyzing the narrow margin of victory and the implications for the new administration. It highlights the division between left and right ideologies, noting that the election results reflect ongoing regional and ideological splits. The piece suggests that despite the small margin of victory, De la Espriella has gained legitimacy to implement significant changes in areas such as health, energy, and security. The article also examines the potential for a clear government-opposition dynamic and the need for a balanced approach combining both experienced officials and new political energies. Additionally, it mentions the opportunity for the Colombian right to rebrand itself to appeal to broader segments of society.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the election outcome as a validation of the governing party's policies and emphasizes the legitimacy of De la Espriella's mandate for transformative policies. It portrays the opposition's loss as a reflection of popular support for the current government, suggesting a left-leaning
Why these scores (Factual 30 · Objective 40): The article discusses a different event entirely—Abelardo De La Espriella's election victory—not the scandal involving Indalecio Dangond and Juan José Lafaurie. It contains no factual information related to the primary source document.
SemanaIndependentCenterFactual 30Objective 403 days ago
In a speech from Cali, Iván Cepeda reiterated his call for civil disobedience against Abelardo De La Espriella, who was elected president. Cepeda stated they do not recognize De La Espriella as president and outlined conditions under which they would accept his leadership, including renouncing U.S. nationality and ceasing persecution of President Petro. The designated Minister of the Interior, Rodrigo Lara, responded by criticizing Cepeda's stance as undemocratic, arguing that recognizing election results is fundamental to constitutional democracy. Lara warned that Cepeda’s call for civil disobedience could lead to street confrontations, blockades, and violence similar to past incidents in Cali. Cepeda emphasized peaceful resistance if De La Espriella fails to meet their demands.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both Cepeda's call for civil disobedience and Lara's counterargument without overtly favoring either side. It includes direct quotes from both figures and outlines their respective positions without editorializing or biased language.
Why these scores (Factual 30 · Objective 40): This article covers a completely unrelated topic—the political conflict between Abelardo De La Espriella and Iván Cepeda regarding civil disobedience—not the scandal involving Indalecio Dangond and Juan José Lafaurie. It contains no factual information related to the primary source document.
El EspectadorIndependentCenterFactual 30Objective 404 days ago
The article titled 'Regiones y relaciones internacionales: así se mueve hoy Abelardo De la Espriella' by El Espectador focuses on the international relations and regional activities of Abelardo De la Espriella, likely a Colombian politician or diplomat. The piece explores his recent engagements and strategic moves within both national and international contexts, highlighting his role in shaping Colombia’s foreign policy and regional alliances. While the content appears to provide an overview of his current initiatives, the lack of specific details makes it challenging to assess the depth of the coverage. The article does not offer explicit commentary on political charges or ideological leanings, suggesting a more observational approach.
Bias read (Center): The article presents an observational account of Abelardo De la Espriella's international and regional activities without overtly favoring any particular political ideology or agenda. It appears to focus on factual reporting rather than taking a clear stance or promoting a specific narrative, which,
Why these scores (Factual 30 · Objective 40): This article discusses Abelardo De La Espriella's foreign policy plans, not the scandal involving Indalecio Dangond and Juan José Lafaurie. It contains no factual information related to the primary source document.
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