📰 La Silla Vacía · 90
COSantos talked about voting to defend the Peace Agreement
The article reports that former President Juan Manuel Santos stated he would vote for whoever defends the Peace Agreement during an event in Washington with the Diálogo Interamericano think tank. The claim was reported by Noticias Caracol and shared on social media by journalist Juan Camilo Merlano. According to the article, Santos was repeatedly questioned by U.S. diplomats and former officials about his vote. Santos has not denied the statement. Former Interior Minister Juan Fernando Cristo, who worked under both Santos and Gustavo Petro, described the alleged comment as 'consistent and inco
Ungrd: Senator Martha Peralta is being investigated today
Senator Martha Peralta of the Pacto Histórico was reported to have spent the night in police custody following an investigation into her alleged involvement in the corruption scandal at the National Risk Management Unit (Ungrd). However, Peralta's office stated she remained at home. The discrepancy arises after previous reports indicated she was to be transferred to the office of Supreme Court Judge Cristina Lombana. The investigation, which had been postponed twice due to Peralta's absence, will proceed today. Peralta claimed she is facing political persecution. If Judge Lombana decides, she
Jessi Uribe spoke after the support of popular music singers to Abelardo de la Espriella and unveiled his vote: Ya won
Abelardo de la Espriella continues gaining support ahead of the second-round presidential election on June 21. He received public backing from several prominent figures in Colombian popular music during a recent meeting. Artists such as Pipe Bueno, Alzate, Ciro Quiñones, Alan Ramírez, Francy, and Juan Pablo Navarrete officially endorsed the candidate, along with Sonia Restrepo, widow of the late singer Yeison Jiménez, who also attended the meeting and expressed her support for the lawyer. The gathering brought together these well-known personalities in the popular genre during the final stage
Cepeda on the inquiry into Uribe for massacres: a significant breakthrough
Iván Cepeda, a presidential candidate, described the call for an investigation into former President Álvaro Uribe regarding his alleged links to the massacres of El Aro (1997) and La Granja (1996), as well as the assassination of Jesús María Valle, as a 'significant advance' in the search for truth, justice, and reparation. Cepeda emphasized that there are still no convictions for those who planned the massacres. He participates in the process as a 'popular actor,' a legal figure allowing any person to intervene when a crime affects community interests. Cepeda has been a political adversary of
The second lap started outdoors.
Colombians living abroad can vote in the second round of the presidential election from today until June 21. A total of 1,441,661 people are eligible to vote at 67 embassies across the country. The first polls opened in Auckland, New Zealand, due to time zone differences. In the first round, De La Espriella defeated Iván Cepeda by a significant margin outside of Colombia, securing 53% of the votes compared to Cepeda’s 29%. The participation rate was only 40%, with less than 600,000 voters. De La Espriella gained an advantage in the United States, where he is a citizen, resides, and has donated
Colombian democracy is imperfect, but it remains indispensable
The article discusses the imperfections of democracy but emphasizes its continued importance. It references historical perspectives from Winston Churchill and Aristotle, highlighting concerns about majority rule leading to tyranny and the challenges of managing public deliberation. The author argues that despite these flaws, democracy remains the most legitimate system for handling societal tensions between individual freedoms, equitable representation, ideological pluralism, and power control.
Informed breakfast with the keys of June 19, 2026
The article discusses various political developments in Colombia ahead of the June 19, 2026 elections. It mentions Abelardo de la Espriella's allegations against politicians buying votes for Iván Cepeda, while noting that traditional Caribbean politicians are supporting him. The article also covers the resumption of an investigation into Senator Martha Peralta of the Pacto Histórico over corruption charges, U.S. travel warnings due to potential protests during the election, Paola Holguín's resignation from the Senate and Centro Democrático party, and insights into voter sentiment for the run‑‑
Detector: there is no evidence that Cepeda has active terminal cancer
The article addresses claims circulating online that Iván Cepeda, a Colombian politician, has terminal cancer. These claims are based on alleged medical records suggesting he has advanced-stage cancer affecting his left body. However, the article refutes these claims by citing a certified medical report dated June 14, 2026, signed by an oncologist, which states there is no evidence of new relapses or complications since 2022. The article also notes that Cepeda was diagnosed with early-stage colon cancer in 2018 and later with liver cancer in 2021, but has been under medical monitoring since 20
Abelardo with politicians: intimidates those of Cepeda and is silent with his own
Abelardo de la Espriella accused Iván Cepeda's campaign of vote-buying involving traditional politicians, citing concerns over clientelism in the Caribbean region. He mentioned U.S. officials like Christopher Landau and listed politicians to monitor. However, it was noted that powerful local figures, such as those linked to the Char family, also engage in similar practices. While Cepeda's campaign includes traditional politicians with past allegations of clientelism, internal reports indicated limited effectiveness of these networks during the first round. The second-round election could see a
Paulino Riascos warns that his life is at risk for not supporting Iván Cepeda: They already have me programmed to kill me
Senator Paulino Riascos announced his departure from Congress, criticizing the Pacto Histórico party and the support provided by President Gustavo Petro's administration to Afro-Colombian communities. Riascos claimed his life is at risk due to his refusal to back Iván Cepeda, stating he has been targeted for not supporting Cepeda's campaign. He also criticized the lack of economic support for Afro-Colombian communities compared to indigenous groups. The article mentions other related developments, including Álvaro Uribe being called for investigation by the Prosecutor's Office and Claudia Lópé
Who is Marcela Abadía, the prosecutor who ordered the investigation against former president Álvaro Uribe Vélez?
The article discusses the recent decision by prosecutor Marcela Abadía to initiate an investigation against former president Álvaro Uribe Vélez, who was previously declared innocent of charges related to procedural fraud and witness bribery. The investigation is linked to alleged involvement in massacres at El Aro and La Granja, the supposed paramilitary operations center at Hacienda Guacharacas, and the assassination of human rights defender Jesús María Valle. The timing of the announcement, three days before the second round of presidential elections between Abelardo de la Espriella (backed由
Sleep informed with the movements of this June 18, 2026
The Fiscalía has initiated an investigation against former president Álvaro Uribe regarding alleged ties to the massacres of El Aro (1997) and La Granja (1996) in Antioquia, as well as the assassination of defender Jesús María Valle. Uribe, who was governor at the time, called the summons an 'unfair political pressure' and questioned the prosecutor involved due to their past role in the JEP. President Petro urged him again to submit to that jurisdiction. The case proceeds under charges of homicide of a protected person and aggravated conspiracy. Meanwhile, the agricultural land reform bill was
Last days to access the ABC of Democracy experience
La Silla Vacía has launched an educational program called 'ABC de la Democracia,' accessible via WhatsApp, aimed at helping Colombians understand the electoral system, identify misinformation, and critically analyze political information. The program, which takes 90 minutes to complete, includes videos, tests, and infographics. Over 1,000 young people have already participated, with 90% rating their satisfaction highly. The initiative is supported by the Fundación Gloria Zea through scholarships.
After the Peace Agreement, other factors influenced deforestation: study
A recent study by researchers Mauricio Velásquez and Juan Diego Duarte from the Center for Studies on Security and Drugs at the University of Los Andes found that increased deforestation after Colombia's 2016 peace agreement with the FARC may be due to factors other than those commonly attributed. The study challenges the prevailing narrative that deforestation was caused by the absence of state presence and illegal land ownership. Instead, it suggests that deforestation is linked to economic development and the consolidation of state authority in areas previously affected by armed conflict.
The vote of the intellectuals is not worth more than the vote of others
The article discusses the recent attention given to Colombian intellectuals who have expressed their support for certain political candidates or warned against others. It questions whether these individuals truly represent all Colombian intellectuals and highlights concerns about the implicit authority attributed to them based solely on their intellectual status. The piece critiques the assumption that these individuals hold a higher moral or political authority simply because they are recognized in public discourse.
The Etis already have their own identification codes in the Dane.
The Entidades Territoriales Indígenas (Etis) have been assigned unique identification codes by the Dane (National Administrative Department of Statistics) as part of administrative adjustments following intercultural agreements with indigenous communities who became self-governing entities in December 2025. These codes begin with the serial number 003 and are designed to recognize and organize indigenous territories independently from departments and municipalities. However, the Etis are not yet visible in the Dane’s geoportal or fully integrated into the national statistical information系统.
Officially sunk in House the bill of agrarian reform
The agricultural jurisdiction reform bill officially failed in the Chamber of Representatives due to lack of quorum and opposition requests. The bill was approved by joint committees of Congress and the Senate in December 2024 but had not yet been debated in the full Chamber. According to Senator Angélica Lozano, some congress members disagreed with the role of the National Agency in the proposed system.
Guaviare becomes first department to turn bioeconomy into public policy
In 2024, Guaviare lost 16,908 hectares of forest according to figures from the IDEAM and regional environmental authorities. In response, the Guaviare Departmental Government, through the Administrative Planning Department, developed and presented to the Departmental Assembly the Policy for Sustainable Economic Development (PPDES+B) 2026–2036. The initiative aims to preserve 4.8 million hectares of natural forest, which represents 87% of the department’s territory, by replacing illegal logging and extensive cattle ranching with high-revenue biobusinesses for local communities. The policy has a
Flip again warns of attacks by Abelardo de la Espriella to the press
The Foundation for Press Freedom (Flip) has raised concerns over Abelardo de la Espriella's attacks on the press. In a statement, Flip highlighted an 'obvious pattern' in the accusations against journalists from the outlet Cambio, who uncovered payments of $1.299 million to a previously inactive company with an incorrect address. The foundation emphasized that democracy requires leaders who protect all press, not just those favorable to them, and urged the next president to ensure journalists can work freely even when their findings or criticisms are uncomfortable for those in power.
Campaigns are importing hostile and risky nationalisms
The article discusses how Colombian politics is increasingly influenced by imported nationalist ideologies and frameworks from other countries. It references Cuban anthropologist Fernando Ortiz's concept of 'contrapunteo' to explain how cultures interact, blend, and sometimes distort when external elements are incorporated into local contexts. The piece highlights how Colombia's presidential election debate has adopted political rhetoric and symbols from nations like the United States, Brazil, and Argentina, potentially leading to misunderstandings of domestic issues.
Influencers changed the way of campaigning in Colombia
The article discusses how influencers have become central figures in Colombian presidential elections, reshaping campaign strategies through digital platforms. Researchers from the Universidad del Rosario have been monitoring the social media activity of 70 key influencers across different regions and political orientations to understand their impact on politics.
Cepeda did not reject vital salary or agrarian reform, video is taken out of context
A video circulating online appears to show Iván Cepeda, a leftist presidential candidate in Colombia, making statements that seem to reject key policies such as a living wage, agricultural reform, public education support, and youth programs. However, the article clarifies that Cepeda was not outlining his own policy platform but warning about what would happen if Abelardo de la Espriella, another candidate, were to win the presidency. The video was taken out of context by those who added text suggesting Cepeda opposes these policies, which misrepresents his actual message.
Campaign Diary: Trump with Abelardo and Benedetti criticizing Carrillo
The article discusses developments in Colombia's presidential campaign ahead of the second round. It reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump has continued to publicly support Abelardo de la Espriella despite requests from eleven Democratic congressmen not to interfere in Colombian elections. Additionally, it covers comments by Carlos Carrillo, who warned that if Abelardo wins, the country could face significant unrest. Benedetti rejected these claims during an interview.
MOE warns of labor pressures to influence the vote in Bogotá and Antioquia
The Electoral Observation Mission (MOE) in Bogotá and Antioquia has reported receiving 40 complaints nationwide regarding alleged workplace pressures aimed at influencing workers' electoral decisions. The reports include threats of dismissal, restrictions on voting, and incentives to discourage democratic participation. The MOE emphasized that employers have no authority to interfere with employees' political convictions. Four common practices were identified: using apocalyptic narratives about potential layoffs or business closures if a certain candidate wins, hindering voting authorization,
Dane: Economic activity grew by 3.3% in April 2026
Colombia's economic activity grew by 3.3% in April 2026 compared to April 2025, according to the Department Administrative Statistics (Dane). The growth was driven primarily by services, which increased by 4.5%, followed by secondary activities such as manufacturing and construction, which rose by 1.8%. Primary activities like agriculture, fishing, and livestock declined by 2.35%. From January to April 2026, the economy accumulated a growth rate of 2.46%, below the historical average of 3.4% between 2006 and 2025.
Mayor of Barranquilla: ask up to 50 votes to contractors for Abelardo
The article reports that the administration of Barranquilla, controlled by the powerful 'Char' family, is allegedly requesting between 30 to 50 votes from contractors for Abelardo de la Espriella, a candidate from this influential political clan. The claim comes from journalist Laura Ardila, who authored a book detailing the history of the 'Char' family. According to Ardila, officials have been asking contractors from institutions such as Cultura Ciudadana, Participación Ciudadana, and the Institution Universitaria de Barranquilla to provide lists of committed voters. This practice is said to
Colombia faces a historic decision: Former President Iván Duque writes a column for The Economist
In an op-ed published in The Economist, former Colombian President Iván Duque discusses the significance of the June 21 election between Iván Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella. He argues that the election represents a choice between two contrasting visions of the state: democracy versus executive overreach, rule of law versus impunity, technocratic governance versus improvisation. Duque emphasizes the importance of Colombia’s 1991 Constitution, which he claims has been at risk since President Gustavo Petro took office. He criticizes Petro’s government for attempting to intimidate courts, mis
Colombia in the geopolitics of the World Cup
The article discusses the geopolitical significance of the FIFA World Cup, particularly focusing on its role beyond sports. It highlights how the event serves as a platform for international diplomacy, national image-building, and competition among governments, corporations, and international organizations. The article notes that while the World Cup provides a temporary distraction from political tensions, it also reflects broader power dynamics within the global system. It mentions FIFA's growing influence, citing the massive viewership of past tournaments.
Claudia's "non-adhesion" has led to further concessions from Iván Cepeda
The article discusses Claudia López's decision not to endorse Iván Cepeda in the upcoming election, contrasting her previous support for Gustavo Petro in 2018 and 2022. It notes that despite her lack of endorsement, Cepeda's campaign has gained significant momentum by securing her support, which is seen as crucial for attracting moderate voters. The article also highlights the political risks López faces and the criticism she has received from opponents.
Progressive economists and politicians support the Petro-Cepeda economic model
A group of economists and progressive politicians, including Thomas Piketty, Ha-Joon Chang, and former Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa, signed an open letter supporting Colombia's economic model under President Petro. The letter highlights achievements such as reduced poverty and unemployment, as well as progress in land reform. It also mentions candidate Cepeda’s commitment to continuing Petro's structural reforms. The letter emphasizes that the decision ultimately lies with the Colombian people.
Gringo congressmen ask Trump not to interfere in the elections
Eleven Democratic congressmen sent a letter to high-ranking officials in Donald Trump's administration expressing deep concern over what they describe as undue interference in Colombia's elections. The letter specifically criticizes Donald Trump for his full support of Abelardo de la Espriella, who is described as having a 'deeply troubling history' that may contradict US interests and laws. The congressmen highlight De la Espriella's controversial clients, including Álex Saab, a Venezuelan regime associate under investigation in the United States, and David Murcia Guzmán, linked to the DMG金字塔
Government says suspension of Cneb ZUT is 'impossible' to comply
The Colombian government has stated that it is 'impossible' to comply with a court order suspending the relocation of over 100 members of the Coordinadora Nacional Ejército Bolivariano (Cneb), a dissident group led by Walter Mendoza, to a temporary location zone (ZUT) in Putumayo. Armando Novoa, the chief negotiator, said the process would continue while discussions on prior consultation with indigenous communities in the area progress. According to reports, 30 of the group have already arrived at the site via helicopter. The court ordered the suspension following a petition by the indigenous
Environmental activists in Bonn call for Colombia to reject fracking
At the Bonn Climate Conference, environmental activists and indigenous communities called on the Colombian government to ban hydraulic fracturing (fracking). The event was organized by the University of Columbia, the NGO ACE Observatory focused on climate action, and the environmental collective Life of Pachamama. Activists argued that the issue is too significant to leave to political circumstances and emphasized that regardless of election outcomes, fracking must be prohibited. Indigenous leaders also expressed opposition to fracking, highlighting concerns related to their communities.
Experts evaluate environmental proposals by Cepeda and De la Espriella
Experts analyzed the environmental proposals of candidates Abelardo De la Espriella and Iván Cepeda regarding deforestation, climate change adaptation, and energy transition. Sandra Vilardy noted that De la Espriella's approach emphasizes 'order and control' against criminal organizations, while Cepeda's plan was deemed insufficient in addressing tensions between former combatants and criminal groups. Rodrigo Botero highlighted differences in their land-use strategies, with Cepeda promoting sustainable practices and De la Espriella favoring expanded cattle farming without clear regulatory ties
Alleged FARC dissident tried for killing indigenous leader in the Amazon
A woman accused of being part of the Jonier Arenas front of FARC dissidents was judicially processed for her alleged involvement in the murder of indigenous leader Custodio Yucuna Taminuca, which occurred on June 6, 2023, in La Pedrera, Amazonas. According to the National Prosecutor's Office, the accused, Saray Vilches Noriega known by the alias Sofia, is believed to have been involved in verifying and executing orders from the group's leaders. The investigation found that armed men arrived at Yucuna Taminuca's home under the pretense of needing traditional medical assistance but later tookhim
Milei talks to Abelard and backs him for the runoff.
Javier Milei, the president of Argentina, expressed his support for Abelardo de la Espriella ahead of the second-round election in Colombia. In a tweet, Milei stated he shared common principles with de la Espriella, including economic freedom, increased security, more trade, and zero tolerance for transnational organized crime and drug trafficking. The article notes similarities between the two candidates, describing them as outsiders who appeal to aspirational voters and position themselves as anti-establishment alternatives.
Prosecutor's office investigates 7 ambassadors for political involvement
The Colombian Prosecutor's Office is investigating seven ambassadors for alleged involvement in political activities. The ambassadors under investigation include Luis Ernesto Vargas (OEA), Milton Rengifo (Venezuela), José Roberto Acosta (Argentina), Luis Fernando Medina (OECD), Jhenifer Mojica (FAO), Daniel Ernesto Prada (Belgium), and Elizabeth García (Bolivia). According to Deputy Prosecutor José Rodrigo Vargas del Campo, the exact dates of the alleged incidents are still being determined. Officials have been allowed to provide their version of events while evidence is collected to determine
More changes: Ministry of Interior challenges Bogota for hours of dry law
The Minister of Interior, Armando Benedetti, announced that the dry law for the second presidential runoff will begin on Saturday at 6 PM and last until midnight on Monday. This comes after the Bogotá Mayor’s Office had previously imposed stricter restrictions starting Friday night. The minister emphasized that the presidential decree takes precedence over local regulations, stating that all bars nationwide can remain open on Friday but must close by 6 PM on Saturday until midnight on Monday. The decision follows complaints from restaurants and bars affected by the initial dry law during the首轮
From Espriella, comrade Musk and the surrender of digital sovereignty
The article discusses Abelardo de la Espriella's campaign promises during the first round of elections in Colombia, focusing on his proposal to collaborate with Elon Musk to provide internet access to the country. It highlights specific instances where de la Espriella offered assistance through personal connections, such as helping a friend with migration issues and contacting officials to resolve problems related to beer bottle returns. The article also mentions de la Espriella's continued emphasis on forming an alliance with Musk for connectivity after the election.
Abelardo's lawyer makes accusations against Cambio without any proof
Germán Calderón España, legal advisor for Abelardo de la Espriella's campaign, accused journalists from the outlet Cambio of being ethically responsible for crimes committed by armed groups, including the assassination of Miguel Uribe. This came after Cambio published an investigation into payments made to an inactive company with an incorrect address. Calderón requested a retraction from Cambio, citing claims the outlet had not made, a tactic he has used against other media outlets before. Federico Gómez, director of Cambio, refused to retract and responded by criticizing Calderón's attacks.
Mayor ordered to remove Cepeda banners from Cartagena walls
The mayor of Cartagena, Dumek Turbay, ordered the removal of campaign banners featuring presidential candidates Iván Cepeda and Aída Quilcué from the city's historic walled promenade. The area is a protected heritage site with specific regulations regarding installations. The mayor stated that the walls are not public spaces for political advertising. After the order was issued, officials found no banners during an inspection.
There are no voting times per candidate in the second round, image is a montage
An image circulating on social media falsely claimed that voters in Colombia's second-round presidential election on June 21 would have different voting hours depending on their candidate. The article clarifies that this image is a fabrication and not authorized by the National Registry of Civil Status (Registraduría). The official source confirms that voting hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. nationwide, as mandated by law.
Abelardo: firms for my country, donkey fight with tiger tied up
The article discusses a political situation in Colombia involving Abelardo de la Espriella and potential legal issues related to his dual Colombian-American citizenship. A group of prominent lawyers has raised concerns that if De la Espriella were to become president, it could create a conflict of interest due to his American nationality and the oath he took to prioritize loyalty to the United States over any other state. The piece references ongoing legal debates regarding whether this would constitute an incapacity, incompatibility, or conflict of interest, while also noting the broader, non
Soacha's mother: Polo Polo will serve three days in prison for failing to comply
A judge from the 30th Civil Circuit of Bogotá ordered three days of arrest for representative Miguel Polo Polo for violating a ruling by the Constitutional Court, which required him to apologize to the Mothers of Soacha collective and the Rinconesarte Foundation. The incident stems from Polo Polo removing without permission an artistic exhibition honoring victims of false positives. The Constitutional Court had previously mandated that Polo Polo publish a public apology on his social media, which he has yet to do.
Cepeda published health certificate.
Iván Cepeda, a political candidate, published a certificate from his oncologist confirming he has not experienced any cancer relapses since 2022. The document states he is under ongoing medical monitoring with periodic check-ups and lab tests. This comes after his rival, Abelardo de la Espriella, shared his own medical records, including a clinical history showing mild elevation in total cholesterol. Cepeda had previously stated his health status was 'verifiable' but refused to disclose his medical documents until a legal deadline approached.
Abelardo's campaign paid $1.299 million to ghost company
More than $1.2 billion from Abelardo de la Espriella's campaign ended up with a transportation and logistics company that had been dissolved for at least three years. The company, Nova Soporte Integral, has no known history, offices, employees, or registered income. It also remains unclear who its legal representative is. According to reports, the company revived in the Chamber of Commerce of Bogotá just five months ago. Before that, it had been inactive for over three years without any activity or recorded income. Since the start of De la Espriella's campaign, however, the company invoiced $1
Home and word: the paradox in De la Espriella's dual nationality
The article discusses the paradox of Abelardo de la Espriella, who became a U.S. citizen in 2023 but later ran for president under the movement 'Defensores de la Patria,' promoting patriotism and national identity. The text highlights the contradiction between his legal renunciation of foreign allegiances and his subsequent political campaign centered around Colombian nationalism.
Minilquality is preparing to close while Congress seeks lifeguards
Workers at Colombia's Ministry of Equality have entered into a 'permanent assembly' due to uncertainty over their future following the government's notification that the ministry will enter liquidation. The ministry has until Friday for Congress to correct a procedural flaw in the law that established the ministry, but the bill is stalled in Senate and Chamber committees. Administrative closure procedures are set to begin on June 17, with key tasks to be completed by June 19. A scheduled meeting between workers and Minister Lucho Acosta did not take place, leading to protests.
Videos show propaganda in favour of Cepeda, not election cards
Two videos circulating on social media show people marking supposed ballot cards in support of Iván Cepeda. Users claim this is election fraud for the second round on June 21. However, the videos are not related to actual elections but are advertisements. The printed materials include a watermark stating they are 'non-valid samples.' The National Registrar of Electors confirmed these were non-viable samples used for advertising purposes, not for the actual election.
Beyond the illegal, the problem is mining in general: Cepeda
Iván Cepeda, a political candidate, discussed illegal mining, fracking, and the protection of páramos during an interview on a comedy show. He stated that while illegal mining has specific impacts depending on the scale, the broader issue is the overall mining industry in Colombia. Cepeda argued that the country lacks a mining code that ensures mineral wealth benefits the nation and emphasized supporting small and medium-scale miners who have operated sustainably. He cited the example of emeralds being controlled by private individuals rather than the state.
After almost a year, the ELN released two police officers kidnapped in Arauca
The ELN has released two police officers who were kidnapped in Arauca last July. The freed officers, Franki Esley Hoyos and Yordin Fabián Pérez, were among four agents captured by the ELN's Eastern Front. The group had previously announced their intention to release them and have them received by a humanitarian commission. The other two officers, Rodrigo López and Jesús Antonio Pacheco, remain in captivity while serving a sentence imposed by the guerrilla group following a 'revolutionary trial' for alleged espionage. The ELN also declared a ceasefire ahead of the second round of elections, set
ICBF reveals new details of the foreign case and a minor on a balcony in northern Bogotá: it's very important to clarify
An international man involved in a controversy after a video of a child on a balcony in Bogotá went viral has been released. His lawyer confirmed that three minors tested negative for sexual abuse and provided consistent accounts denying any abuse. The mother was present during the incident. Astrid Cáceres, director of the Colombian Institute of Family Welfare (Icbf), stated that there is no evidence of sexual abuse or mistreatment against the three children aged 4, 7, and 15 who were with the foreigner and a woman in the apartment. She emphasized that the scenario depicted online has been 'wh
Iran, visas and Trump: five World Cup political acts so far
The article discusses five political events during the early days of the World Cup, focusing on Iran's challenges with visa restrictions related to Donald Trump, complaints about the tournament organization from Iranian players, and other controversies.
This image of Gloria Arizabaleta with Petro and Roy Barreras is a montage
A doctored image circulating on social media showing Roy Barreras, President Gustavo Petro, and Congresswoman Gloria Arizabaleta at a recent meeting at the Casa de Nariño has been identified as a fake. The image was created by digitally adding Arizabaleta to an older photo from May 2025 featuring only Barreras and Petro. The original photograph was published by multiple media outlets, including La Silla Vacía. Barreras confirmed the image was a 'crude montage' created using AI and attributed it to Abelardo De la Espriella’s team.
Massive caravan in favour of Abelardo de la Espriella in Bogotá
Groups of citizens took to the streets across the country this weekend to support the presidential candidacy of Abelardo de la Espriella and José Manuel Restrepo. One such mobilization occurred in Bogotá, led by council members Rolando González, Marco Acosta, Tata Hernández, and Rubén Torrado, along with hundreds of citizens who endorse the political project of the movement 'Defensores de la Patria.' During the event, council member González stated via social media that 'Bogotá is firm for the fatherland' and that thousands of citizens are supporting the presidential candidacy of Abelardo dela
Petro, Abelardo and Quilcué discuss child abuse in Bogotá
A case of child abuse in northern Bogotá, involving an American man from Texas who was recorded sexually abusing a minor on a residential balcony, has sparked reactions from political leaders. The man was arrested by police after neighbors alerted them and surrounded the building. The affected children, along with two others present in the apartment, were attended to by the Icbf. President Gustavo Petro used the incident to promote his social programs, contrasting his policies with what he describes as the 'ultraderechismo' in the United States. He criticized the far-right for fostering pedoph
Gustavo Petro thanked Donald Trump for his peace efforts:
President Gustavo Petro thanked Donald Trump for his 'effort' toward peace between the United States and Iran, despite criticizing Trump's 'unconstitutional intervention' in Colombia's internal politics. Petro stated that Colombia, currently holding the UN Security Council presidency, will support efforts to achieve peace between the two countries and promote economic and military sanctions relief across the Middle East and globally. He also emphasized the need for multilateral dialogue between the U.S. and Latin America and the Caribbean to strengthen freedom, democracy, and energy transition
De La Espriella and Cepeda, two models, two failures
The article analyzes the economic proposals of two Colombian presidential candidates, Iván Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella, arguing that both models have failed. It critiques Cepeda's continuation of Petro's policies, pointing out low wealth creation and reliance on free trade agreements without adjustments. The article highlights structural issues such as low per capita income, lack of industrial development, high informality, poverty, inequality, and growing foreign dependence.
Cepeda links De La Espriella to alleged health crimes
Senator Cepeda has filed new criminal charges against Abelardo De La Espriella, alleging five crimes related to his law firm's representation of Saludvida, an EPS that was dissolved in 2023. The alleged offenses include unfair administration, private corruption, procedural fraud, embezzlement by appropriation, and embezzlement through improper official application. According to the complaint, De La Espriella received irregular payments from public funds managed by the EPS and had involvement in hiding the entity’s assets during its restructuring process. Cepeda claims these actions affected up
The fiction of the two extremes
The article discusses the 'straw man' fallacy in the context of Colombia's current presidential campaign, highlighting how some individuals frame opponents by exaggerating or distorting their positions. It critiques the tendency among certain centrist, center-left, and non-petrist left sectors to equate the risks posed by Iván Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella by constructing extreme versions of their arguments.
The Court recognized care as a state task, lack of funding
The article discusses Colombia's ongoing fiscal challenges related to social investments, including economic stagnation, declining business confidence, rising violence, and public finance pressures. It highlights the Constitutional Court's ruling (Sentencia T-022 of 2026), which recognizes care as a state responsibility rather than solely a family obligation, particularly for elderly individuals requiring home nursing services. The court's decision emphasizes the need for state funding to support such care, moving beyond short-term solutions like increased taxes or budget allocations.
Runoff vote calculator: these are the decisive votes
The article discusses the potential votes that could determine the outcome of the second-round presidential election in Colombia between Abelardo De La Espriella and Iván Cepeda. It highlights that De La Espriella currently leads by 673,000 votes and analyzes three main ways both candidates could gain support: mobilizing voters who did not participate in the first round, engaging abstentionists aligned with their political positions, and capturing votes from eliminated candidates such as Paloma Valencia and Sergio Fajardo.
Culture needs to speak out, not just be symbolic in campaigns
The article discusses the role of culture in Colombian presidential elections, noting that while cultural actors actively participate in campaigns by mobilizing publics and shaping emotional language, they rarely influence strategic state decisions. The author highlights the paradox that despite their impact on political discourse, cultural issues like funding, institutional strengthening, governance, and sustainability are seldom prioritized in presidential debates.
Spend your Sunday afternoon with these opinion columns
The article highlights several opinion columns published over the weekend. The first discusses Iván Cepeda’s campaign strategy during the election, noting its shift toward leveraging national pride in football. Another piece reflects on the balance between risk mitigation and personalization in governance. A third explores the rise of politically successful leaders who consolidate power around radical ideas and unyielding myths. The final column mentions a notable professional opportunity related to Abelardo.
Participate in a study on how Colombians experience polarization
A team of neuroscience researchers from the Universidad Javeriana is conducting an anonymous survey to understand how Colombians are experiencing political polarization during the election period. The survey explores perceptions of different political groups, personal political stances, and how individuals believe others perceive them. The results will be published by La Silla Vacía.
Defensoría alerts high level of confrontation in the elections
The Office of the Ombudsman issued its third report on the electoral process, warning of high levels of confrontation, stigmatization, false information, and questioning of democratic institutions during the final phase of the presidential campaign between Abelardo de la Espriella and Iván Cepeda. The report calls for an end to stigmatization, rejection of misinformation, protection of life, and recognition of political opponents' legitimacy. It outlines nine points to ensure respect for democratic principles, including defending life, adopting non-violence, respecting institutions, promoting
Dissidents from Mordisco extend ceasefire for second round
The Central Command of 'Mordisco' dissidents within the FARC announced an extension of their ceasefire with state forces, covering the second-round presidential election on June 21. The group stated this decision aims to create conditions for peaceful voting. This is not the first electoral ceasefire by the group, which previously declared a truce in May for the first-round election. The group reiterated its right to self-defense against attacks from state forces or other armed actors. The announcement follows President Petro's confirmation of a bombing operation against Mordisco in Guaviare.
Digital violence is the result of a patriarchal algorithm
The article discusses digital violence against women in Latin America, arguing that it is an extension of patriarchal violence into the virtual space. It highlights how digital platforms enable systematic aggression, harassment, and discrimination against women politicians, journalists, feminists, and human rights defenders. The piece critiques the role of multinational platforms and internet intermediaries as new 'owners' of public space, noting their dual role in both enabling gender biases through algorithms and resisting efforts to regulate non-consensual content under the guise of free-sy
Abelardo de la Espriella: The Tiger of Sinú
The article discusses Abelardo de la Espriella, a figure from a traditional family in Sahagún, Córdoba, with roots in Cartagena and Italian and Syrian-Lebanese diaspora communities in the Caribbean region. The conversation takes place between professor Andrés Ramos Cabrales of the University of Sinú, author of 'El Sinú en la época de la madera,' and focuses on the history of the department of Córdoba, including the transformation of its ecosystem from a forest rich in fine woods like mahogany at the end of the 19th century to today's cattle grazing lands. It also touches on the political 'cas'
Los anuncios inflados de Abelardo sobre el edificio con el que financia su campaña
The article investigates claims made by Abelardo De la Espriella regarding his real estate project, 'De la Espriella Collection,' which he used to fund his presidential campaign. The article states that De la Espriella presented the project as a completed success, claiming it provided him with financial independence. However, the article reveals that as of June 4, 2026, the project had not received construction permits in Bogotá and was still being marketed to the public.
Sustainability and ecological footprint in mega-events such as the 2026 World Cup: Implications and actions to generate less impact
The article discusses the environmental impact of large-scale events such as the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, focusing on carbon emissions generated by transportation, stadium construction, waste production, and hospitality areas. Scientists estimate that the tournament could generate up to 9 million tons of CO2 equivalent, with air travel accounting for approximately 7.7 million tons. The article highlights that this event may be the most polluting in history due to increased travel distances and the involvement of 48 teams across three countries.
Looking for the ideal Amazon city
The article explores the contrast between the public perception of the Amazon as a vast, biodiverse region and the reality of its social conflicts, illegal activities, and environmental degradation. It also highlights the often-overlooked fact that much of the Amazon's population lives in cities rather than rural areas, discussing the historical development of these urban centers in relation to economic factors such as rubber production, oil booms, and industrialization policies.
Ivan Cepeda: a red prince Déjà Vu
The article discusses Iván Cepeda, a member of a deeply orthodox communist family in Colombia. His father, Manuel Cepeda Vargas, was a prominent leader in the Communist Party of Colombia (PCC), serving as editor of the newspaper 'Voz Proletaria' and later as Secretary General. His mother, Yira Castro, also had a significant role in the party and served as a council member in Bogotá. The piece includes an interview with historian Isidro Vanegas about Cepeda’s family legacy and internal debates within the PCC regarding strategy.
Abelardo's campaign says mining in the Amazon is not going and other news
Abelardo de La Espriella and his business partners in the mining and oil sectors stated they will not promote extractive projects in the Colombian Amazon. Experts note that the Amazon has low extractive potential. Despite being the most biodiverse country per square meter, Colombia has not capitalized on its leadership following the creation of the Fondo Cali, a multilateral mechanism approved at COP16 to distribute benefits from genetic resources. Over ten years, royalties received have not exceeded 100 million pesos. Iván Cepeda presented his government plan, proposing the creation of a Bioe
The challenges between gender-based political violence and freedom of expression
The article discusses the challenges between gender-based political violence and freedom of expression in Mexico. It highlights the creation of laws aimed at protecting women's participation in politics but notes that these laws have sometimes been misused as tools of censorship, affecting public discourse, especially during elections. The piece also mentions the underrepresentation of women in media and the persistence of symbolic violence against women in political processes.
Agustín Laje spoke to SEMANA and rejected the petrism campaign on Argentina and the alleged failure of Milei.
Agustín Laje, a political figure, rejects claims made by the petrismo movement and Iván Cepeda's campaign suggesting that electing Abelardo de la Espriella as president could lead Colombia to become like Argentina under Javier Milei. Laje argues that these claims are based on misinformation and false narratives spread through social media. He highlights economic improvements in Argentina since Milei took office, including a reduction in the fiscal deficit and inflation rates, along with modest GDP growth.
They ask the United States to investigate and include Ricardo Roa, president of Ecopetrol, on the Clinton List for transactions in the Petro campaign.
Ricardo Roa, president of Ecopetrol and former campaign manager for Gustavo Petro, is under investigation for alleged money laundering and illegal campaign financing related to Petro's 2022 presidential campaign. A formal request has been submitted to the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to evaluate his inclusion on sanctions lists, known as the 'Clinton List.' The case involves significant financial transactions during the campaign period. A criminal complaint was also filed with Colombia's Attorney General's Office, accusing Roa of violations including illicit funding sources,超标的
The Inventory
The article discusses the upcoming election on June 21, reflecting on voters' awareness of past actions and decisions made by political figures. It critiques the idea that knowing the truth would lead to different choices, arguing that this belief is false. The text highlights knowledge of politicians who supported controversial decisions, undermined institutions, failed to break away from systems they criticized, and engaged with former adversaries. It concludes that despite this awareness, one of these figures will still receive votes, as campaigns focus on managing narratives rather than on
Mrs Cleotilde in the death hall of the New EPS
This column focuses on an 88-year-old Colombian woman named Doña Cleotilde who has been struggling to access Colombia's healthcare system for months and faces the risk of dying in the process. The article highlights the broader issue of thousands of Colombians facing similar challenges within the country's health system, describing it as a humanitarian crisis affecting 11 million patients. It provides background on Doña Cleotilde's life as a farmer from Boyacá, her large family, and her current situation living in Bogotá with her daughters.
Doña Carmen and the disaster of the New EPS
This column focuses on an 88-year-old Colombian woman named Doña Carmen who has been struggling to access Colombia's healthcare system for months and faces the risk of dying in the process. The article highlights her life as a lifelong farmer from Boyacá, where she and her husband built their farm and raised ten children, five of whom are still alive. Now unable to work due to age, she lives in Bogotá with her daughters, who care for her. The piece underscores the challenges faced by many Colombians in accessing adequate healthcare and raises broader questions about social inequality and the负担
The centrifugal country
The article reflects on past Colombian political campaigns from the 1990s, comparing them with current political dynamics. The author recalls watching old footage and interviews, noting that while the country was under greater threat from guerrillas and paramilitaries, the political leaders of that time were more moderate and closer to each other compared to today’s polarized political landscape.
The legacies of Cepeda: the agreement and total peace
The article discusses Iván Cepeda's two legacies entering the presidential campaign: the 2016 Peace Agreement, which he helped create, and the 'total peace' policy under President Petro, which he supported. The piece highlights both achievements and shortcomings of these policies, noting progress in areas like the reincorporation of former combatants but also pointing out where the process fell short. It suggests that if Cepeda becomes president, he would need to address these issues with a new vision.
Sleeping with the movements of this 12 June 2026
The article reports on two main topics: first, the Colombian National Administrative Department of Statistics (Dane) published data showing a decrease in monetary poverty to 28% in 2025, with extreme poverty reaching a historic low of 9.6%. The release came earlier than usual, just before the second round of elections, sparking debate about timing. President Petro praised the results as his administration's greatest achievement, noting nearly four million people exited poverty under his leadership. Second, the Council of State upheld the candidacy of Abelardo de la Espriella despite concerns,驳
Plan for the bridge: exhibition on cave paintings in Bogotá
An exhibition titled 'Trazos sobre piedra: pinturas milenarias en la serranía de La Lindosa' will take place at the Museum of Gold in Bogotá during June weekends. The exhibit features interactive and audiovisual content about ancient rock paintings found in San José del Guaviare. These paintings, estimated to be between 8,000 and 12,000 years old, depict animals, humans, and geometric symbols. Clara Ximena Ordóñez, secretary of Culture and Tourism of Guaviare, emphasized that the exhibition aims to make these historical sites more accessible to the public by highlighting their proximity via a
Cepeda and Abelardo in the Caribbean: the battle for machine voting
In the Caribbean region of Colombia, 924,000 people voted in congressional elections but did not participate in the first round of the presidential election. Many of these voters only mobilize if political structures provide transportation, offer gifts, or directly buy their votes. Traditional politicians in the region who support Iván Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella could be decisive. In the first round, Cepeda won the Caribbean with 2.2 million votes, but the margin was smaller than expected (561,000 votes) in a region historically strong for Petro. To reverse the national result, Cepeda
More than half of Colombia is still forest: this is its new relief map
The Ministry of Environment, with support from Ideam and governments of Norway, the United Kingdom, and Germany, presented an updated topographic map of Colombia's biophysical features. The map highlights deforestation impacts on natural forest cover since the 1990s. Despite being among the twelve countries with the most forest cover and preserving 1.5% of the world's forests, Colombia has lost 7.2 million hectares of forest between 1990 and 2024—equivalent to 10.9% of its original forest area. The map identifies key geographical references and spatial proportions, including the three mountain
The latest fiscal framework expects to close 2026 with higher interest payments
The Colombian government presented its last Medium-Term Fiscal Framework (MFMP) for this administration, outlining economic projections and public finance planning for 2026 and 2027. The document indicates an increase in interest payments on debt, with a projected rise of 0.2% of GDP in 2026 and 0.4% of GDP in 2027. This has led the government to revise its deficit projection from 5.1% to 5.3% of GDP. To meet its goal of keeping net debt at 58% of GDP, the government plans to increase revenue by 1.4% of GDP through what it calls a 'fiscal pact,' which includes reducing tax evasion and boosting
USO called for intensified mobilizations in Ecopetrol facilities
The Union Sindical Obrera (USO), the largest union within Ecopetrol, has called for intensified mobilizations across all Ecopetrol installations from today until June 15th as a pressure tactic to address their demands during ongoing negotiations with the country’s largest company. The union submitted a set of proposals on April 17th covering workers' rights, health and well-being, economic conditions, labor relations, and energy sovereignty. According to USO, the company's responses have not addressed worker needs, with less than 30% of their demands resolved. The union claims there has been a
Dane reports that monetary poverty by 2025 fell to 28%
The National Administrative Department of Statistics (Dane) reported that monetary poverty in Colombia fell to 28% in 2025, down nearly four percentage points from 31.8% in 2024. Extreme monetary poverty reached a historic low of 9.6%. Monetary poverty measures the number of people with an income below certain thresholds: 482,000 pesos monthly per person for general poverty and 236,000 pesos for extreme poverty. The report was released more than a month earlier than usual, coinciding with the electoral period.
Mindefensa warns of possible violent riots after the second round
The Minister of Defense, Pedro Sánchez, warned during a press conference that there could be violent disturbances following the second round of the presidential election. He cited intelligence reports indicating potential threats and emphasized the importance of addressing both misinformation and violent actions. In response, a Unified Command Post (PMU) for security will be activated starting Tuesday, June 16, along with a cyber PMU to monitor online activity and prevent violence. The minister also highlighted the need for respectful language to avoid inciting hatred.