Colombia presidential runoff pits leftist senator against pro-Trump rival
Summary
Colombia's presidential election will have a runoff on June 21 between Iván Cepeda, a left-wing senator, and Abelardo de la Espriella, a right-wing candidate who supports President Donald Trump’s style. Neither candidate won more than 50% of votes in the first round, with De la Espriella leading slightly.Key Facts
- The runoff election is set for June 21 because no one won outright in the first round.
- Abelardo de la Espriella is a right-wing candidate who admires President Trump and supports a tough military approach to crime.
- Iván Cepeda is a left-wing senator allied with current President Gustavo Petro and supports peace talks with armed groups.
- The campaign has seen violence, including attacks and the assassination of a previous presidential candidate.
- Cepeda helped with peace talks that led to a disarmament agreement with FARC rebels in 2016.
- Under President Petro, cocaine production increased and armed group violence has risen, despite attempts at peace negotiations.
- De la Espriella promises stricter punishment, more military power, and plans for large prisons like those in El Salvador.
- The runoff may affect Colombia's relations with the US and neighboring countries.
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