Colombia’s Security Measures for Presidential Candidates: A Response to Violence or a Sign of Deeper Instability?

Colombia is stepping up security efforts ahead of its crucial 2026 elections, deploying more than 1,000 state security personnel and hundreds of vehicles to safeguard 41 presidential and congressional candidates. The government’s action follows a brutal assassination attempt that shocked the nation and laid bare the vulnerabilities in electoral security.On June 7, Senator and presidential aspirant Miguel Uribe Turbay was attacked in Bogotá with multiple gunshots—two to the head and one to the leg—while addressing supporters. Although his condition has improved, this act of violence highlights serious flaws in safeguarding democratic processes from violent interference.Government’s Response: Security or Symptom?Interior Minister...