Colombia - October 2023

On 29 October, regional elections were held in Colombia. 32 governors and over 1,000 mayors were among the over 20,000 public offices that were elected. President Gustavo Petro’s party faced a blow as its candidates for pivotal posts were defeated.  

Acts of violence took place during election day, including riots and acts of arson in public buildings in some localities, one of which resulted in the death of a civil servant. The Organization of American States expressed its concern over the acts of violence during the election day and throughout the post-electoral process, calling for all disagreements and claims to be considered by the relevant authorities. According to international observers, compared to the 2019 elections, violence has increased in 75 per cent. 

Sources: El Pais, Organization of American States, Colombia Reports