Colombian candidate Cepeda criticises rival’s campaign ahead of presidential run-off
Ivan Cepeda accuses opponent of misusing national symbols and promoting foreign policy models
Colombian presidential candidate Ivan Cepeda criticised his opponent, Abelardo de la Espriella, accusing him of misusing national symbols and promoting foreign political models during a campaign event with young supporters in Bogotá. Joined by vice-presidential candidate Aida Quilcué, Cepeda thanked supporters and expressed confidence ahead of the 21 June run-off, while highlighting the role of young people in the electoral process. He also questioned the Colombian Football Federation’s response after raising concerns over his rival’s use of the national team jersey, saying it should not be treated as an ordinary commercial item.
Cepeda further argued that proposals put forward by de la Espriella represent a risk, claiming they include the introduction of “mega-prisons” inspired by Central American policies and economic measures similar to those promoted by Argentina’s president Javier Milei. His remarks follow a ruling by a municipal criminal court in Bogotá prohibiting the use of the national team jersey in de la Espriella’s campaign. The second round of Colombia’s presidential election is set for 21 June and will determine the successor to President Gustavo Petro for the 2026–2030 term.
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