Two presidential campaign staffers killed in Colombia as elections near
Summary
Two staff members of a right-wing presidential candidate were killed in Colombia two weeks before the country’s May 31 election. The attacks happened in Meta, a region with a history of violence, and officials warn such violence threatens democratic participation.Key Facts
- Two campaign staffers for candidate Abelardo de la Espriella were shot by gunmen on motorbikes in Meta.
- The victims were Rogers Mauricio Devia Escoba, a former mayor, and his adviser Eder Fabian Cardona Lopez.
- Another attack targeted a former mayoral candidate in the same area.
- Violence and threats against political leaders have increased ahead of the presidential election.
- Colombia’s presidential race includes 14 candidates, with frontrunners including left-wing Senator Ivan Cepeda and right-wing Abelardo de la Espriella.
- Meta is known for rebel activity and cocaine trafficking, contributing to security challenges.
- Some candidates have faced death threats, and security is tight for leading politicians.
- A rebel group that did not disarm after a 2016 peace deal has carried out violent acts, including kidnapping and attacks on politicians.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.