The Colombian Ombudsman’s Office has issued a warning days before the 2026 presidential runoff, asserting that the nation
“is not in a war”
as disinformation and stigmatization deteriorate the democratic debate, according to reports from Revista Semana.
- Event: 2026 Colombian Presidential Runoff
- Warning Body: DefensorÃa del Pueblo (Ombudsman’s Office)
- Monitoring Body: Misión de Observación Electoral (MOE)
- Primary Concerns: Disinformation, stigmatization, and escalating political hostility
Why is the election rhetoric escalating?
Hostility between political camps has intensified following the first round of voting. According to the Misión de Observación Electoral (MOE), as reported by Blu Radio, the nature of the conflict has shifted from standard verbal insults to more dangerous references of physical violence and the “elimination” of political adversaries.
The Ombudsman’s Office identified a high level of confrontation that threatens the stability of the electoral process. According to Revista Semana, the agency noted that the continued use of stigmatization is actively damaging the quality of the democratic discourse as the campaign enters its final stage.
Which candidates are under scrutiny?
The Ombudsman’s Office has specifically called for a change in tone from key political figures. According to La Silla VacÃa, the agency requested that candidates Cepeda and De La Espriella engage in a respectful debate during the final stretch of the campaign to mitigate the prevailing atmosphere of confrontation.
