The year 2026 begins in Colombia with an electoral focus, ahead of congressional elections on March 8, the presidency on May 31, and a likely runoff on June 21. A total of 3,144 candidates have registered for legislative seats, according to electoral authority records. Analysts describe the outlook as confused and diffuse, emphasizing the need for clean campaigns to avoid commitments that foster corruption.
The 2026 elections signal a turnover in Colombia's Legislative and Executive branches over the next six months. On March 8, the new Congress of the Republic will be elected, with 103 seats in the Senate and between 165 and 182 in the House of Representatives. According to electoral records, 1,078 candidates are vying for Senate seats in 26 party and movement lists, while 2,066 seek House seats through 488 lists, totaling 3,144 aspirants.
This process is likened to an auto race, where the congressional election serves as the 'pole position,' setting the positioning of parties and candidates for the presidential contest. Preliminary March results will shape alliances, coalitions, and political realignments. The number of seats won by the Pacto Histórico will be crucial in deciding on calling a Constituent Assembly.
Concurrently, three interparty consultations will select coalition candidates for the presidency, using a single ballot where voters mark only one name to prevent null votes. Experts warn of the proliferation of aspirants who prioritize image over substance, recruiting influencers to draw votes, which contributes to public disdain for politics.
In the campaign context, the need for independence to pursue the common good is stressed, without political debts from vote-buying or leader purchases. Democratic illiteracy in Colombia is cited as a factor in corruption, which begins during campaigns. Citizens are urged to read proposals, know trajectories, and not sell their vote, recalling that 'he who pays to arrive, arrives to steal'.
