Colombia's 2026 presidential race looks uncertain, with Centro Democrático set to select its candidate from three standout women. The party, linked to Álvaro Uribe, seeks a figure to unify uribismo and appeal to the political center. Paloma Valencia emerges as an option with a strong legislative record.
Colombia's presidential election, set to conclude on August 7, 2026, is marked by uncertainty. Within Centro Democrático, three women remain from an initial five precandidates vying for the nomination. This choice is pivotal, as the selected candidate will carry the 'Uribe's' label, securing backing from hardcore uribismo while needing to forge ties with the center, center-right, and moderate left sectors to safeguard democratic stability.
Paloma Valencia stands out for her Senate tenure across three consecutive terms. From 2018 to 2022, she authored nine bills and co-authored 47, with three enacted into law. A key achievement is the Panela Law, which boosts the quality and marketing of this iconic product, formalizes thousands of traditional mills, and enhances conditions for rural producers in overlooked areas.
Valencia also helped establish specialized chambers in the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) for security forces members, removed clauses disadvantaging the military, and twice halted fast-track land expropriation proposals. Her contributions in political oversight debates have upheld institutions and democratic security.
This nomination marks Valencia's third bid to lead Centro Democrático. Columnist Omar Nicolás Ordóñez Ruiz stresses the importance of an interparty consultation in March 2026 among center, center-right, and democratic right groups to pick a unity candidate, preventing vote fragmentation that could undermine the opposition.