BOGOTÁ, Colombia (AP) — Colombia's presidential election on Sunday features two candidates with contrasting approaches to addressing the country's ongoing violence and trauma from decades of conflict. Iván Cepeda, a peace activist, supports continuing President Gustavo Petro's 'total peace' agenda, while Abelardo de la Espriella, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, advocates for a more aggressive stance against crime. The election reflects deep societal divisions, with many voters concerned about a return to past violence.
The conflict in Colombia has resulted in over 10 million victims, according to government records. Both candidates represent different visions for peace, with Cepeda aiming to negotiate with criminal groups and de la Espriella promising a crackdown similar to El Salvador's approach to gang violence. The election comes amid fears of escalating violence, with citizens recalling the painful memories of past atrocities, including extrajudicial killings and kidnappings.
Elizabeth Dickinson, deputy Latin America director of the International Crisis Group, noted that polarization in Colombian society has been intensifying for decades, creating a dangerous 'us versus them' mentality. As the election approaches, many Colombians express concern about the potential for renewed violence, regardless of the outcome.