Topic analysis

‘Total peace’ or ‘all-out war’? Colombian voters face stark choice as rebel attacks surge

Ahead of Colombia’s 2026 presidential election first round on May 31, voters face a stark choice between continuing President Gustavo Petro’s 'total peace' initiative (backed by his candidate Iván Cepeda) and returning to all-out war against armed groups, as advocated by leading rightwing candidates. Surges in rebel attacks, homicides, kidnappings, and massacres—including a deadly bombing by Farc dissidents and the assassination of a presidential hopeful—have reignited debate over conflict resolution, with critics noting Petro’s unmonitored ceasefires allowed armed factions to expand control and engage in illicit activities like drug trafficking.