Colombian President Gustavo Petro has announced the suspension of a truce with leftist guerrillas in four flashpoint regions of the country. This decision comes in response to the killing of four Indigenous children by rebel forces. Petro declared that the bilateral ceasefire would be suspended, and all offensive operations would be reactivated in the Meta, Caqueta, Guaviare, and Putumayo regions.

The victims, who belonged to the Murui Indigenous community, were executed in southern Colombia by dissidents of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). These dissident factions had refused to join the 2016 peace accord, which resulted in the disarmament of most FARC rebels and the formation of a communist political party. The four regions where the ceasefire has been suspended are known strongholds of these dissident guerrillas.

<h2>Rebel groups decry Petro’s decision</h2>

The decision to suspend the truce was met with a scathing response from the rebel group Estado Mayor Central. In a statement sent to the media, they criticised the government's action, warning that the suspension of the ceasefire would lead to an escalation of violence and a rise in casualties.

Watch:&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker | Landslide in Colombia: At least three dead and several missing

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According to the country's human rights ombudsman, the four Murui minors were executed on the border between Caqueta and Amazonas after defecting from a dissident faction of FARC known as the Carolina Ramirez front. This front, belonging to the Estado Mayor Central, had recently agreed to a ceasefire proposed by the government and was preparing to engage in new peace talks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-president-retracts-claim-children-found-after-plane-crash-593881">Also Read |&nbsp;Colombia president retracts claim children found after plane crash</a>

The human rights ombudsman emphasised the gravity of the situation, highlighting that recruiting and killing children and adolescents from Indigenous communities are clear violations of international humanitarian law. The ombudsman condemned these acts as lacking goodwill in the pursuit of peace.

<h2>President Petro in no mood to back off</h2>

President Petro strongly denounced the murders as an atrocious crime and a setback to the peace process. He vowed to take measures against these actions. Petro had previously initiated bilateral ceasefires with several armed groups, but three of these truces have now ended due to the breakdown of the peace process with the National Liberation Army guerrillas and the Gulf Clan drug traffickers.

Petro's approach to negotiating peace with armed groups has faced criticism from the opposition, who accuse the government of being too weak in preventing armed groups from dictating the terms of peace. The Estado Mayor Central also blamed the government for its failure to establish mechanisms to verify compliance with the ceasefire.

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Colombian President Gustavo Petro has announced the suspension of a truce with leftist guerrillas in four flashpoint regions of the country. This decision comes in response to the killing of four Indigenous children by rebel forces.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has announced the suspension of a truce with leftist guerrillas in four flashpoint regions of the country. This decision comes in response to the killing of four Indigenous children by rebel forces. Petro declared that the bilateral ceasefire would be suspended, and all offensive operations would be reactivated in the Meta, Caqueta, Guaviare, and Putumayo regions. The victims, who belonged to the Murui Indigenous community, were executed in southern Colombia by dissidents of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). These dissident factions had refused to join the 2016 peace accord, which resulted in the disarmament of most FARC rebels and the formation of a communist political party. The four regions where the ceasefire has been suspended are known strongholds of these dissident guerrillas. Rebel groups decry Petro’s decision The decision to suspend the truce was met with a scathing response from the rebel group Estado Mayor Central. In a statement sent to the media, they criticised the government's action, warning that the suspension of the ceasefire would lead to an escalation of violence and a rise in casualties. Watch: WION Climate Tracker | Landslide in Colombia: At least three dead and several missing × According to the country's human rights ombudsman, the four Murui minors were executed on the border between Caqueta and Amazonas after defecting from a dissident faction of FARC known as the Carolina Ramirez front. This front, belonging to the Estado Mayor Central, had recently agreed to a ceasefire proposed by the government and was preparing to engage in new peace talks. Also Read | Colombia president retracts claim children found after plane crash The human rights ombudsman emphasised the gravity of the situation, highlighting that recruiting and killing children and adolescents from Indigenous communities are clear violations of international humanitarian law. The ombudsman condemned these acts as lacking goodwill in the pursuit of peace. President Petro in no mood to back off President Petro strongly denounced the murders as an atrocious crime and a setback to the peace process. He vowed to take measures against these actions. Petro had previously initiated bilateral ceasefires with several armed groups, but three of these truces have now ended due to the breakdown of the peace process with the National Liberation Army guerrillas and the Gulf Clan drug traffickers. Petro's approach to negotiating peace with armed groups has faced criticism from the opposition, who accuse the government of being too weak in preventing armed groups from dictating the terms of peace. The Estado Mayor Central also blamed the government for its failure to establish mechanisms to verify compliance with the ceasefire. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Colombia suspends truce with armed leftists after killing of four Indigenous children

Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Thursday retracted his claim that four Indigenous children missing for more than two weeks after an airplane crash in the Amazon had been found alive.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Thursday retracted his claim that four Indigenous children missing for more than two weeks after an airplane crash in the Amazon had been found alive. Writing on Twitter, Petro said he had deleted his tweet from Wednesday night in which he had announced the rescue of the four children, including an 11-month-old baby. "I am sorry for what happened. The military forces and Indigenous communities will continue in their tireless search to give the country the news it is waiting for," he said. More than 100 soldiers have been deployed with sniffer dogs to search for the minors who were travelling in an airplane that crashed on May 1, leaving three adults including the pilot and the children's mother dead. Rescuers believe the children -- who in addition to the 11-month-old include a 13, nine and four-year-old -- have been wandering through the jungle in the southern Caqueta department since the crash. "At this time there is no other priority other than progressing with the search until finding them," added Petro. "The children's lives are the most important thing." Petro's stunning announcement on Wednesday had been met with uncertainty as he gave no details about where or how the children had been rescued, nor how they had survived alone in the jungle. "Joy for the country," he had declared. Amid widespread confusion, the military has not commented since Petro's announcement on Wednesday. The children's grandmother, Fidencio Valencia said there was hope that they would be found alive since "they are used to being in the jungle." She said they might be hiding out of fear but she told the Caracol Noticias television newscast that "Indigenous energy" would help the rescuers locate them. Signs of survival The government's Institute of Family Welfare said that it had on Wednesday received "information from the territory confirming contact with the four children." It said the report indicated that "they had been found alive and are also in good health." However, the agency acknowledged that the military had not been able to "establish official contact" due to bad weather and difficult terrain, and were continuing search and rescue operations. Avianline Charters, owner of the crashed aircraft, had previously said that one of its pilots in the search area was told the children had been found and that they were being taken by boat downriver. But the company also said that there was no confirmation that the children were out of danger, and thunderstorms posed a risk to them reaching safety. On Wednesday, the armed forces had said their search efforts intensified after rescuers came across a "shelter built in an improvised way with sticks and branches," leading them to believe there were survivors. In photographs released by the military, scissors, shoes, and hair ties could be seen among branches on the jungle floor. A baby's drinking bottle and half-eaten pieces of fruit had been spotted before the shelter's discovery. On Monday and Tuesday, soldiers found the bodies of the pilot and two adults who had been flying from a jungle location to San Jose del Guaviare, one of the main cities in Colombia's east where grasslands give way to Amazon rainforest. Difficult access Giant trees that can grow up to 40 meters tall and heavy rainfall made the "Operation Hope" search difficult. Three helicopters were used to help, one of which blasted out a recorded message from the children's grandmother in their native Huitoto language telling them to stop moving through the jungle. Authorities have not indicated what caused the plane crash. The pilot had reported problems with the engine just minutes before the airplane disappeared from radars, Colombia's disaster response body said. It is a region with few roads and is also difficult to access by river, so airplane transport is common. The children are from the Indigenous Huitoto community, also spelled Witoto, who are known for living in harmony with the jungle. The community develops skills in hunting, fishing and gathering, which may have helped the children to survive. Exploitation, disease and assimilation have reduced the Huitoto population sharply over many decades. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Colombia president retracts claim children found after plane crash

Four Indigenous children, including an 11-month-old infant, were found alive in Colombia's thick Amazon forests&nbsp;following an aircraft crash&nbsp;more than two weeks ago, President Gustavo Petro announced Wednesday, expressing "joy" for the country.

The children were located following "arduous search efforts" by the military, according to Petro's tweet.

There is uncertainty over whether the four children from an Indigenous tribe in Colombia had been found alive after an aircraft crash, when reports from the country's president were challenged by military sources.&nbsp;

As per local media reports, defence sources had no confirmation that the children had been found, reported the Guardian.

Authorities had sent out more than 100 soldiers accompanied by sniffer dogs to look for the children aboard an aeroplane that crashed on May 1, killing three adults.

Rescuers suspect the children, who included a 13-year-old, a nine-year-old, and a four-year-old, had been wandering through the jungle in the southern Caqueta region since the crash.

Earlier on&nbsp;Wednesday, the armed forces claimed that search efforts had been stepped up after rescuers discovered a "shelter built in an improvised way with sticks and branches," prompting them to suspect there were survivors.

Scissors and a hair tie were visible amid the trees on the forest floor in pictures published by the military forces.

A baby's drinking bottle and a half-eaten piece of fruit had already been discovered.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/peace-talks-with-colombian-govt-in-crisis-because-eln-guerrilla-group-592826">'Peace talks with Colombian govt in crisis because...': ELN guerrilla group</a>

Soldiers discovered the remains of the pilot and two adults who had been flying from a jungle area to San Jose del Guaviare, one of Colombia's largest cities in the Amazon rainforest, on Monday and Tuesday.

Ranoque Mucutuy, one of the deceased passengers, was the mother of the four Huitoto ethnic children.

<h2>Tough search conditions amid Operation Hope</h2>

The hunt for "Operation Hope" was hampered by giant trees that can grow to be 40 metres tall, dangerous animals, and severe rain.

Three helicopters were used to assist, one of which aired a recorded message from the children's grandmother in Huitoto instructing them to halt going through the dense forest.&nbsp;

The reason of the crash&nbsp;has not been revealed by authorities.

According to Colombia's disaster response agency, the pilot reported engine difficulties just minutes before the jet vanished from radars.

It is a remote location with few roads and poor river access, therefore air travel is popular.

The Huitoto, also known as the Witoto, are renowned for living in peace with the disconnected forest, as well as for their hunting, fishing, and gathering abilities, which may have helped the children survive.

Over many decades, the population has been drastically decreased due to exploitation, illness, and assimilation.

Petro, who announced the rescue, is Colombia's first leftist president.

He took office in August of last year but has yet to implement the essential reforms in labour law, healthcare, pensions, and the judiciary that he had pledged during his campaign.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Four Indigenous children, including an 11-month-old infant, were found alive in Colombia's thick Amazon forests following an aircraft crash more than two weeks ago, President Gustavo Petro announced Wednesday, expressing "joy" for the country.

Four Indigenous children, including an 11-month-old infant, were found alive in Colombia's thick Amazon forests following an aircraft crash more than two weeks ago, President Gustavo Petro announced Wednesday, expressing "joy" for the country. The children were located following "arduous search efforts" by the military, according to Petro's tweet. There is uncertainty over whether the four children from an Indigenous tribe in Colombia had been found alive after an aircraft crash, when reports from the country's president were challenged by military sources. As per local media reports, defence sources had no confirmation that the children had been found, reported the Guardian. Authorities had sent out more than 100 soldiers accompanied by sniffer dogs to look for the children aboard an aeroplane that crashed on May 1, killing three adults. Rescuers suspect the children, who included a 13-year-old, a nine-year-old, and a four-year-old, had been wandering through the jungle in the southern Caqueta region since the crash. Earlier on Wednesday, the armed forces claimed that search efforts had been stepped up after rescuers discovered a "shelter built in an improvised way with sticks and branches," prompting them to suspect there were survivors. Scissors and a hair tie were visible amid the trees on the forest floor in pictures published by the military forces. A baby's drinking bottle and a half-eaten piece of fruit had already been discovered. ALSO READ | 'Peace talks with Colombian govt in crisis because...': ELN guerrilla group Soldiers discovered the remains of the pilot and two adults who had been flying from a jungle area to San Jose del Guaviare, one of Colombia's largest cities in the Amazon rainforest, on Monday and Tuesday. Ranoque Mucutuy, one of the deceased passengers, was the mother of the four Huitoto ethnic children. Tough search conditions amid Operation Hope The hunt for "Operation Hope" was hampered by giant trees that can grow to be 40 metres tall, dangerous animals, and severe rain. Three helicopters were used to assist, one of which aired a recorded message from the children's grandmother in Huitoto instructing them to halt going through the dense forest. The reason of the crash has not been revealed by authorities. According to Colombia's disaster response agency, the pilot reported engine difficulties just minutes before the jet vanished from radars. It is a remote location with few roads and poor river access, therefore air travel is popular. The Huitoto, also known as the Witoto, are renowned for living in peace with the disconnected forest, as well as for their hunting, fishing, and gathering abilities, which may have helped the children survive. Over many decades, the population has been drastically decreased due to exploitation, illness, and assimilation. Petro, who announced the rescue, is Colombia's first leftist president. He took office in August of last year but has yet to implement the essential reforms in labour law, healthcare, pensions, and the judiciary that he had pledged during his campaign. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Amazon plane crash: Confusion in Colombia after Pedro’s tweet on four missing kids being rescued

The Colombian government said on Wednesday that the interior ministry has decided to suspend the ceasefire agreement with the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels. The announcement came a day after the guerrilla outfit denied signing a six-month ceasefire pact with the authorities.

"In view of the position publicly assumed yesterday (Tuesday)... we have decided to suspend the legal effects of the decree" which had established a bilateral truce with the ELN from January 1 to June 30, minister Alfonso Prada said in the press conference according to Reuters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-offshoot-to-xbb15-may-cause-new-covid-spike-in-the-us-confirms-cdc-549368">Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause new Covid spike in the US, confirms CDC</a>

The two parties are expected to sit for negotiations once again in Mexico.

Earlier, Colombian President Gustavo Petro had announced on New Year’s Eve that the government was successful in making the five largest armed groups agree to a six-month truce. However, the statement was rejected by National Liberation Army (ELN) – the biggest group in the mix.

“The ELN Dialogue Delegation has not discussed any bilateral ceasefire with the Gustavo Petro government, therefore no such agreement exists,” the guerrilla group said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-to-call-for-mandatory-maths-education-till-age-18-549369">Rishi Sunak plans to make maths mandatory for all students till the age of 18</a>

According to official data, around 450,000 Colombians were killed while eight million were displaced due to the internal conflict plaguing the country. A peace agreement was signed between the parties in 2016 but the smaller groups have entered the fray to make the situation worse in Colombia.

“This whole fiasco demonstrates how improvised many of the government’s announcements are, declaring things without thinking them through with all the relevant stakeholders,” Sergio Guzmán, director of Colombia Risk Analysis said in an interview with The Guardian. 
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The Colombian government said on Wednesday that the interior ministry has decided to suspend the ceasefire agreement with the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels.

The Colombian government said on Wednesday that the interior ministry has decided to suspend the ceasefire agreement with the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels. The announcement came a day after the guerrilla outfit denied signing a six-month ceasefire pact with the authorities. "In view of the position publicly assumed yesterday (Tuesday)... we have decided to suspend the legal effects of the decree" which had established a bilateral truce with the ELN from January 1 to June 30, minister Alfonso Prada said in the press conference according to Reuters. Also read | Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause new Covid spike in the US, confirms CDC The two parties are expected to sit for negotiations once again in Mexico. Earlier, Colombian President Gustavo Petro had announced on New Year’s Eve that the government was successful in making the five largest armed groups agree to a six-month truce. However, the statement was rejected by National Liberation Army (ELN) – the biggest group in the mix. “The ELN Dialogue Delegation has not discussed any bilateral ceasefire with the Gustavo Petro government, therefore no such agreement exists,” the guerrilla group said in a statement. Also read | Rishi Sunak plans to make maths mandatory for all students till the age of 18 According to official data, around 450,000 Colombians were killed while eight million were displaced due to the internal conflict plaguing the country. A peace agreement was signed between the parties in 2016 but the smaller groups have entered the fray to make the situation worse in Colombia. “This whole fiasco demonstrates how improvised many of the government’s announcements are, declaring things without thinking them through with all the relevant stakeholders,” Sergio Guzmán, director of Colombia Risk Analysis said in an interview with The Guardian.

Colombian govt suspends 'ceasefire' with National Liberation Army rebels after denial by group

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, in his New Year's Eve announcement, said that his government has reached a six-month ceasefire deal with the country's five largest armed groups.&nbsp;Making the truce was the main goal of the president's "total peace" policy, which is aimed at ending armed conflict within the country that has continued even after the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) was dissolved in 2017.

"We have agreed to a bilateral ceasefire with the ELN, the Second Marquetalia, the Central General Staff, the AGC and the Self-Defence Forces of the Sierra Nevada from January 1 to June 30, 2023, extendable depending on progress in the negotiations," tweeted Petro.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-dissidents-of-guerrilla-group-farc-announce-temporary-truce-546434">Colombia: Dissidents of guerrilla group FARC announce temporary truce</a>

"This is a bold act. The bilateral ceasefire obliges the armed organisations and the state to respect it. There will be a national and international verification mechanism,” he further wrote.

The groups entering the ceasefire deal include&nbsp;leftist guerrilla group like the National Liberation Army (ELN) along with dissident groups which are being operated by former members of the now-demobilised Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), Estado Mayor Central and Segunda Marquetalia.

The Colombian government, in a separate statement, stated that multiple letters were received from the church, society and other community organisations with an appeal to end the violence.

WATCH | Gravitas: Colombia elects former guerrilla rebel as President

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The government said that a specific decree would be issued for each organisation, which will specify the conditions and durations of the ceasefire. The ceasefire deal will end on June 30, but can be extended.&nbsp;

Even after efforts made by the government to negotiate with different armed groups in Colombia, so far it has not been successful in containing the violence that engulfs the country.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Colombian President Gustavo Petro, in his New Year's Eve announcement, said that his government has reached a six-month ceasefire deal with the country's five largest armed groups.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, in his New Year's Eve announcement, said that his government has reached a six-month ceasefire deal with the country's five largest armed groups. Making the truce was the main goal of the president's "total peace" policy, which is aimed at ending armed conflict within the country that has continued even after the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) was dissolved in 2017. "We have agreed to a bilateral ceasefire with the ELN, the Second Marquetalia, the Central General Staff, the AGC and the Self-Defence Forces of the Sierra Nevada from January 1 to June 30, 2023, extendable depending on progress in the negotiations," tweeted Petro. ALSO READ | Colombia: Dissidents of guerrilla group FARC announce temporary truce "This is a bold act. The bilateral ceasefire obliges the armed organisations and the state to respect it. There will be a national and international verification mechanism,” he further wrote. The groups entering the ceasefire deal include leftist guerrilla group like the National Liberation Army (ELN) along with dissident groups which are being operated by former members of the now-demobilised Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), Estado Mayor Central and Segunda Marquetalia. The Colombian government, in a separate statement, stated that multiple letters were received from the church, society and other community organisations with an appeal to end the violence. WATCH | Gravitas: Colombia elects former guerrilla rebel as President The government said that a specific decree would be issued for each organisation, which will specify the conditions and durations of the ceasefire. The ceasefire deal will end on June 30, but can be extended. Even after efforts made by the government to negotiate with different armed groups in Colombia, so far it has not been successful in containing the violence that engulfs the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Colombia government finalises six-month ceasefire deal with five armed groups

Dissidents of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) — a guerrilla group in Colombia, have&nbsp;announced a temporary truce in the country. According to the peace commissioner on Saturday (December 24), the group of armed renegades declared a unilateral ceasefire until the new year, news agency AFP reported on Sunday.&nbsp;

Colombian President Gustavo Petro said on Saturday that other FARC dissidents as well as paramilitaries in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in the north, and gangs in the port of Buenaventura, the most important port on the Pacific, also declared a ceasefire. Taking to Twitter, President Petro said, "We hope that real peace processes will be consolidated."

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Saturday's development comes days after the rebel group the National Liberation Army (ELN) ended the forced confinement of around 10,000 people in the northwest of Colombia.&nbsp;

The ELN is in peace negotiations with the government. It is the last recognised rebel group operating in Colombia, although dissidents who refused to sign a 2016 peace deal between the FARC and the government also remain active, AFP reported on Wednesday. The rebel group has around 2,500 fighters and a wide network of collaborators, independent estimates show.&nbsp;

After becoming the country's first leftist President in August this year, Gustavo Petro vowed to negotiate with all armed groups as a part of his "total peace" policy. At present, there are around 90 political and criminal groups operating in Colombia.&nbsp;

For over five decades, Colombia has suffered an armed conflict between the state and groups of left-wing guerrillas, right-wing paramilitaries and drug traffickers.

In November, talks had resumed with ELN in Venezuela for the first time in three years, when President Petro's predecessor Ivan Duque broke off negotiations following a car bomb attack on a police academy in which 22 people were killed. The initial talks had not resulted in a formal ceasefire agreement. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Dissidents of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) — a guerrilla group in Colombia, have announced a temporary truce in the country. According to the peace commissioner on Saturday (December 24), the group of armed renegades declared a unilateral ceasefire until the new year, news agency AFP reported on Sunday.

Dissidents of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) — a guerrilla group in Colombia, have announced a temporary truce in the country. According to the peace commissioner on Saturday (December 24), the group of armed renegades declared a unilateral ceasefire until the new year, news agency AFP reported on Sunday. Colombian President Gustavo Petro said on Saturday that other FARC dissidents as well as paramilitaries in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in the north, and gangs in the port of Buenaventura, the most important port on the Pacific, also declared a ceasefire. Taking to Twitter, President Petro said, "We hope that real peace processes will be consolidated." ALSO READ | At least 27 killed in Colombia landslide, several injured - President Saturday's development comes days after the rebel group the National Liberation Army (ELN) ended the forced confinement of around 10,000 people in the northwest of Colombia. The ELN is in peace negotiations with the government. It is the last recognised rebel group operating in Colombia, although dissidents who refused to sign a 2016 peace deal between the FARC and the government also remain active, AFP reported on Wednesday. The rebel group has around 2,500 fighters and a wide network of collaborators, independent estimates show. After becoming the country's first leftist President in August this year, Gustavo Petro vowed to negotiate with all armed groups as a part of his "total peace" policy. At present, there are around 90 political and criminal groups operating in Colombia. For over five decades, Colombia has suffered an armed conflict between the state and groups of left-wing guerrillas, right-wing paramilitaries and drug traffickers. In November, talks had resumed with ELN in Venezuela for the first time in three years, when President Petro's predecessor Ivan Duque broke off negotiations following a car bomb attack on a police academy in which 22 people were killed. The initial talks had not resulted in a formal ceasefire agreement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Colombia: Dissidents of guerrilla group FARC announce temporary truce

Colombia's government and the National Liberation Army - the ELN - resumes formal peace talks in Venezuela for the first time since they were suspended back in 2019. The talks are in efforts by President Gustavo Petro, the first-ever leftist leader.

Colombia begins peace talks with ELN rebels; President Petro promises to bring 'total peace'

In pics | Thousands of Colombians protest against Petro's 'tax reforms'

A string of violent incidents in Colombia over the past three days resulted in the death of 17 people, authorities reported, underscoring the enormous burden on President Petro.

Six people were shot dead by gunmen on Monday morning (September 12) in the northern city of Barranquilla while drinking in a bar.

Another violent incident occurred a day earlier when a group of criminals murdered a teacher, his wife, and their two children in north-central Santander on Sunday (September 11), local authorities said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombias-leftist-president-to-give-properties-confiscated-from-drug-traffickers-to-farmers-women-512214">Also read |&nbsp;Colombia's leftist President to give properties confiscated from drug traffickers to farmers, women</a>

Adding to this, five migrants from Venezuela were killed by vigilantes in an act of vengeance. The murderers, the local mayor said, were from Venezuela and wanted to steal money and killed victims with knives. The mayor further said that a wounded member of the deceased family informed the neighbour, who took justice into his own hands and killed the five attackers.

Additionally, a young woman who was a local leader was stabbed to death in her house in the northern Sucre department on Friday night.

As per an NGO leader, 128 locals and community leaders have been killed since the state and Marxist Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia insurgents signed a 2016 peace agreement, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-colombia-restore-diplomatic-ties-after-three-year-break-511018">Also read |&nbsp;Venezuela, Colombia restore diplomatic ties after three-year break</a>

Following his victory in June this year, Petro vowed to impose complete peace on the nation wracked by war. He also swore to begin negotiations with the National Liberation Army. In an effort to break the cycle of violence, he also stated that he would speak to the drug dealers as well.

Conflicts between leftist insurgents, drug traffickers, right-wing paramilitaries, and government troops have plagued Colombia in violence for nearly six decades.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A string of violent incidents in Colombia over the past three days resulted in the death of 17 people, authorities reported, underscoring the enormous burden on President Petro.

A string of violent incidents in Colombia over the past three days resulted in the death of 17 people, authorities reported, underscoring the enormous burden on President Petro. Six people were shot dead by gunmen on Monday morning (September 12) in the northern city of Barranquilla while drinking in a bar. Another violent incident occurred a day earlier when a group of criminals murdered a teacher, his wife, and their two children in north-central Santander on Sunday (September 11), local authorities said. Also read | Colombia's leftist President to give properties confiscated from drug traffickers to farmers, women Adding to this, five migrants from Venezuela were killed by vigilantes in an act of vengeance. The murderers, the local mayor said, were from Venezuela and wanted to steal money and killed victims with knives. The mayor further said that a wounded member of the deceased family informed the neighbour, who took justice into his own hands and killed the five attackers. Additionally, a young woman who was a local leader was stabbed to death in her house in the northern Sucre department on Friday night. As per an NGO leader, 128 locals and community leaders have been killed since the state and Marxist Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia insurgents signed a 2016 peace agreement, AFP reported. Also read | Venezuela, Colombia restore diplomatic ties after three-year break Following his victory in June this year, Petro vowed to impose complete peace on the nation wracked by war. He also swore to begin negotiations with the National Liberation Army. In an effort to break the cycle of violence, he also stated that he would speak to the drug dealers as well. Conflicts between leftist insurgents, drug traffickers, right-wing paramilitaries, and government troops have plagued Colombia in violence for nearly six decades. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Violence in Colombia leaves 17 dead in 72 hours 

The leftward shift in South America that gained momentum in 2021, with right-wing politicians being worsted in presidential elections in Peru, Chile and Honduras, continues its sweep in 2022.

The leftward shift in South America that gained momentum in 2021, with right-wing politicians being worsted in presidential elections in Peru, Chile and Honduras, continues its sweep in 2022. Colombia, famous for its coffee and the novelist Gabriel Garcia Marquez, has for long remained under right-wing regimes that enjoyed a cosy equation with Washington. Some of these regimes were terrible dictatorships which forced people like Marquez, best known for his One Hundred Years of Solitude to live in exile out of fear of being killed by state-sponsored mafia elements. (Even when Marquez accompanied Cuba’s Fidel Castro to the Non-Aligned Summit in Delhi in 1983 he feared that public exposure could endanger his life. Reports were that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had wanted to meet Marquez and requested Castro to arrange it). The new left wind now sweeping Latin America has brought to the fore the promise of radical change in Colombia with election of Gustavo Petro as president. This marks the end of a long conservative era in Colombia; and, this is the twelfth free and fair national election in the continent to have unseated incumbents in office. Colombia now joins the legion of South American states that are ‘socialist’, and socialist states, notably, Venezuela in recent years have been Washington’s targets for regime change. However, the war in Ukraine saw the US making overtures to countries to which it was hitherto hostile. Venezuela, where Washington has sought to oust President Nicolas Maduro since his election in 2019, is now being wooed for its petroleum. ALSO READ | Jake’s fake take: US NSA lied about Iranian drones for Russia Does this mean the US will hold off on regime change for a while, if only in Latin America? How the US adapts to the change of political direction dictated by the growing inequality, economic breakdown and terrible deprivation inflicted by the Covid pandemic in large swathes of South America would be a matter of worldwide interest. The author is an Editorial Consultant, WION TV. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Red star over South America

Promising to fight inequality and bring peace to a country long haunted by bloody feuds between the government and rebel groups, Colombia’s first leftist president was sworn into office Sunday.

Pledging to unite the polarised country in the fight against inequality and climate change, the former member of the M-19 guerrilla group promised to revive scuppered peace negotiations with the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels.

Saying the United States-led war on drugs has failed, he called for a new international strategy to fight drug trafficking.

During his inauguration speech, he said "I do not want two countries, just as I do not want two societies. I want a strong, just, and united Colombia."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-gustavo-petro-the-ex-guerilla-whos-top-contender-for-colombia-president-483749">Also read |&nbsp;Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's Colombia's first leftist leader</a>

Petro's oath-taking ceremony was attended by Spanish King Felipe VI and at least nine Latin American presidents along with 100,000 invitees.

The 62-year-old former senator had defeated conservative parties that failed to connect with voters frustrated by rising poverty and violence against human rights leaders and environmental groups in rural areas.

Highlighting that climate change must be fought internationally, Petro vowed that Colombia would transition to an economy without coal or oil.

Fueling the popularity of leftist parties in national elections, the focus of voters was turned away from the violent conflicts playing out in rural areas and gave prominence to problems like poverty and corruption by a 2016 peace deal between Colombia’s government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia.

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Promising to fight inequality and bring peace to a country long haunted by bloody feuds between the government and rebel groups, Colombia’s first leftist president was sworn into office Sunday.

Promising to fight inequality and bring peace to a country long haunted by bloody feuds between the government and rebel groups, Colombia’s first leftist president was sworn into office Sunday. Pledging to unite the polarised country in the fight against inequality and climate change, the former member of the M-19 guerrilla group promised to revive scuppered peace negotiations with the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels. Saying the United States-led war on drugs has failed, he called for a new international strategy to fight drug trafficking. During his inauguration speech, he said "I do not want two countries, just as I do not want two societies. I want a strong, just, and united Colombia." Also read | Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's Colombia's first leftist leader Petro's oath-taking ceremony was attended by Spanish King Felipe VI and at least nine Latin American presidents along with 100,000 invitees. The 62-year-old former senator had defeated conservative parties that failed to connect with voters frustrated by rising poverty and violence against human rights leaders and environmental groups in rural areas. Highlighting that climate change must be fought internationally, Petro vowed that Colombia would transition to an economy without coal or oil. Fueling the popularity of leftist parties in national elections, the focus of voters was turned away from the violent conflicts playing out in rural areas and gave prominence to problems like poverty and corruption by a 2016 peace deal between Colombia’s government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia. ×

Former guerrilla leader takes oath as Colombia’s first leftist president

Colombia’s&nbsp;Ambassador to India&nbsp;Mariana Pacheco Montes has said that her country electing a left-wing President&nbsp;Gustavo Petro&nbsp;is a show of “strong democracy”.

Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador&nbsp;Mariana explained, “This is the third time he has gone as a presidential candidate, so he’s not new to politics, but what is new is Colombia elects for the first time a left-wing President. He got a margin of 3 per cent over his contender, there is a lot of expectation and enthusiasm about him coming to power.”

Gustavo Petro will take charge next month. He&nbsp;has been a member of the guerrilla movement that later transformed into a political party. Many of the Latin American countries have seen left-wing governments but Colombia remained the last bastion. Ambassador said that President-elect plans to even have an “open conversation with Venezuela and open the relations” with the neighbouring country, which will be a big breakthrough in the region.&nbsp;In 2019, Venezuela’s Maduro cut off diplomatic ties with Colombia.

WION: For the first time ever, your country will have a leftist govt under President-elect Gustavo Petro, if you can talk about the change in your country.

Mariana Pacheco Montes: It is the first time ever&nbsp;that most Colombians went out to vote, and first time ever Colombia elected a left-wing President, and the first time Colombia elects African-Colombian woman as vice-president. This is a proof of the strong democracy that we have in Colombia, the institutionality and the institutions themselves. We are in the midst of a transition to the new government&nbsp;that will take power on 7th&nbsp;August this year.

WION: How significant is this because we know historically FARC hasn't played a very positive role.

Mariana Pacheco Montes: First, President-elect&nbsp;Gustavo Petro&nbsp;demobilized the guerrilla army in the early 1990s, he is a&nbsp;well-known politician, and after that, he went into politics. This is the 3rd&nbsp;time he has gone as the presidential candidate, so he is not new to politics but what is new is Colombia elected for the first time a left-wing President. He got a margin of 3% over his contender, there is a lot of expectation and enthusiasm about him coming to power. He is receiving a country that despite the pandemic is very well managed. A country that is open and growing and has the largest economic growth last year at 10.8%. For this year, according to OECD, Colombia will grow at 6.8%, one of the highest rate in Latin America. The unemployment rate has also decreased and with pride, I have to say that women are leading the recovery of unemployment in Colombia. So, it’s going to be interesting, with a lot of expectations and a lot of enthusiasm in Colombia. 
&nbsp;

WION: How significant it has been for the region, given Colombia has been the last bastion or the country in the region that never had a left-wing govt. How does it also impact your ties with Venezuela?&nbsp;

Mariana Pacheco Montes:&nbsp;It’s not that the country is falling, it’s just the democratic transition from centre-right to the Left, as in many other countries. Wherever there is democracy, there are transitions, and that is what is going on in Colombia. President-elect has said that he will open a conversation with Venezuela and open relations. That is not to say we haven’t had open and fraternal relations with the Venezuelan people. We have received more than 2 million Venezuelans in Colombia and we have formalized or legalized their status in Colombia. So far 1.8 million Venezuelans are living formally in Colombia. It is what some academicians call the pink tide of Latin America where many of the countries are going towards the left.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WION: The recently announced reconciliation report that has been announced is being hailed as a watershed moment in your country’s history. If you can explain to our viewers this report, and also the peace pact that saw Colombia being discussed at UNSC.

Mariana Pacheco Montes:&nbsp;Colombia signed a peace agreement in 2016 with&nbsp;FARC which became a political party and some of those members did not follow, did not demobilize and are still in illegality. With regards to members who have followed the demobilization process, there are more than 10,000 members of the former FARC and some of them are members of the senate, and members of the House of Representatives which is a big step and part of the peace accord signed in 2016. The peace accord has a process of 16 years that it has to follow, and the Colombian government called the UN for a verification mission so that every 6 months the minister of foreign affairs goes with the head of the implementation of the peace agreement and reports how the implementation of the peace agreement is going on. As such, since India is a member of the UNSC, it&nbsp;has also has been part of those reports in the last year and a half.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WION: How do you see the relationship between India and Colombia going forward?

Mariana Pacheco Montes: Very good, I think we are in a very good stage of our bilateral relations and I am very proud as an ambassador that we have come across many bridges, not only in the economic, and cultural space. We are at Casa Colombia, the first cultural centre at the Colombian embassy, and we expanded Indian investment in Colombia. We had a high-level&nbsp;visit, with the Vice President, and Minister of foreign affairs in October, we had MOS MEA Lekhi going to Colombia, and we hope many more happen. Some great tech transfers and investments in pharma companies have happened in Colombia from India. Tech Mahindra, TCS, and Hero Motorcycles are expanding and doing well in Colombia. I see and am proud to be part to be working hand-in-hand in partnership and friendship which has been stronger than ever.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WION: What is the cultural link between India and Colombia?

Mariana Pacheco Montes: Very much so, not only in music, art and everything. My son is with me here and he is studying Hindustani classical music and he has an Indo-Latino group which is very interesting. We are much alike. At Casa Colombia, we brought an Urban Colombian artist who is painting at Vasant Vihar metro station, so our ties are growing stronger and stronger.

Colombia’s Ambassador to India Mariana Pacheco Montes has said that her country electing a left-wing President Gustavo Petro is a show of “strong democracy”. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Mariana explained, “This is the third time he has gone as a presidential candidate, so he’s not new to politics, but what is new is Colombia elects for the first time a left-wing President.

Colombia’s Ambassador to India Mariana Pacheco Montes has said that her country electing a left-wing President Gustavo Petro is a show of “strong democracy”. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Mariana explained, “This is the third time he has gone as a presidential candidate, so he’s not new to politics, but what is new is Colombia elects for the first time a left-wing President. He got a margin of 3 per cent over his contender, there is a lot of expectation and enthusiasm about him coming to power.” Gustavo Petro will take charge next month. He has been a member of the guerrilla movement that later transformed into a political party. Many of the Latin American countries have seen left-wing governments but Colombia remained the last bastion. Ambassador said that President-elect plans to even have an “open conversation with Venezuela and open the relations” with the neighbouring country, which will be a big breakthrough in the region. In 2019, Venezuela’s Maduro cut off diplomatic ties with Colombia. WION: For the first time ever, your country will have a leftist govt under President-elect Gustavo Petro, if you can talk about the change in your country. Mariana Pacheco Montes: It is the first time ever that most Colombians went out to vote, and first time ever Colombia elected a left-wing President, and the first time Colombia elects African-Colombian woman as vice-president. This is a proof of the strong democracy that we have in Colombia, the institutionality and the institutions themselves. We are in the midst of a transition to the new government that will take power on 7th August this year. WION: How significant is this because we know historically FARC hasn't played a very positive role. Mariana Pacheco Montes: First, President-elect Gustavo Petro demobilized the guerrilla army in the early 1990s, he is a well-known politician, and after that, he went into politics. This is the 3rd time he has gone as the presidential candidate, so he is not new to politics but what is new is Colombia elected for the first time a left-wing President. He got a margin of 3% over his contender, there is a lot of expectation and enthusiasm about him coming to power. He is receiving a country that despite the pandemic is very well managed. A country that is open and growing and has the largest economic growth last year at 10.8%. For this year, according to OECD, Colombia will grow at 6.8%, one of the highest rate in Latin America. The unemployment rate has also decreased and with pride, I have to say that women are leading the recovery of unemployment in Colombia. So, it’s going to be interesting, with a lot of expectations and a lot of enthusiasm in Colombia. WION: How significant it has been for the region, given Colombia has been the last bastion or the country in the region that never had a left-wing govt. How does it also impact your ties with Venezuela? Mariana Pacheco Montes: It’s not that the country is falling, it’s just the democratic transition from centre-right to the Left, as in many other countries. Wherever there is democracy, there are transitions, and that is what is going on in Colombia. President-elect has said that he will open a conversation with Venezuela and open relations. That is not to say we haven’t had open and fraternal relations with the Venezuelan people. We have received more than 2 million Venezuelans in Colombia and we have formalized or legalized their status in Colombia. So far 1.8 million Venezuelans are living formally in Colombia. It is what some academicians call the pink tide of Latin America where many of the countries are going towards the left. WION: The recently announced reconciliation report that has been announced is being hailed as a watershed moment in your country’s history. If you can explain to our viewers this report, and also the peace pact that saw Colombia being discussed at UNSC. Mariana Pacheco Montes: Colombia signed a peace agreement in 2016 with FARC which became a political party and some of those members did not follow, did not demobilize and are still in illegality. With regards to members who have followed the demobilization process, there are more than 10,000 members of the former FARC and some of them are members of the senate, and members of the House of Representatives which is a big step and part of the peace accord signed in 2016. The peace accord has a process of 16 years that it has to follow, and the Colombian government called the UN for a verification mission so that every 6 months the minister of foreign affairs goes with the head of the implementation of the peace agreement and reports how the implementation of the peace agreement is going on. As such, since India is a member of the UNSC, it has also has been part of those reports in the last year and a half. WION: How do you see the relationship between India and Colombia going forward? Mariana Pacheco Montes: Very good, I think we are in a very good stage of our bilateral relations and I am very proud as an ambassador that we have come across many bridges, not only in the economic, and cultural space. We are at Casa Colombia, the first cultural centre at the Colombian embassy, and we expanded Indian investment in Colombia. We had a high-level visit, with the Vice President, and Minister of foreign affairs in October, we had MOS MEA Lekhi going to Colombia, and we hope many more happen. Some great tech transfers and investments in pharma companies have happened in Colombia from India. Tech Mahindra, TCS, and Hero Motorcycles are expanding and doing well in Colombia. I see and am proud to be part to be working hand-in-hand in partnership and friendship which has been stronger than ever. WION: What is the cultural link between India and Colombia? Mariana Pacheco Montes: Very much so, not only in music, art and everything. My son is with me here and he is studying Hindustani classical music and he has an Indo-Latino group which is very interesting. We are much alike. At Casa Colombia, we brought an Urban Colombian artist who is painting at Vasant Vihar metro station, so our ties are growing stronger and stronger.

As Colombia gets its first left-wing President, envoy Mariana says it’s a proof of strong democracy

Latin America's new 'pink tide' gains pace as Colombia shifts left; Brazil up next

Colombia has elected its first left-wing President. Gustavo Petro has won #ColombiaVota2022 by securing 50.4% of the vote. Before he entered politics, Petro was a 'guerrilla fighter' in the notorious #M19 group. Palki Sharma gets you his profile.

Gravitas: Colombia elects former guerrilla rebel as President

Colombia has elected its first leftist President after Gustavo Petro wins by 720,000 votes. Meanwhile, 'King of TikTok' failed to gain upper hand in the elections.

'Pink Tide' reaches Colombia as Colombia elects its first leftist President Gustavo Petro

A former member of the M-19 guerrilla movement, leftist Gustavo Petro, has won the presidential elections in Colombia on Sunday. He had vowed to bring social and economic change. In the history of the country, Petro is the first progressive to achieve the feat. With a wide margin of 719,975 votes, 62-year-old Petro, who is a former mayor of capital Bogota, won against construction magnate Rodolfo Hernandez. In the polling carried out ahead of the vote, the two were technically tied. Petro got 50.5% votes while Hernandez bagged 47.3%. &nbsp;

In a short video on social media, Hernandez accepted his defeat and said, "As I said during the campaign, I accept the results of this election." &nbsp;

Watch WION's live TV here:

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Petro, who is currently a senator, has vowed to fight inequality with pension reforms, free university education and high taxes on unproductive land. He also looks to come up with a ban on new oil projects. Petro seems to have been tortured by the military when he was detained for involvement with the guerrillas. &nbsp;

The running mate of Petro, Francia Marquez, will become the first Afro-Colombian woman vice-president. She is a single mother and former housekeeper. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A former member of the M-19 guerrilla movement, leftist Gustavo Petro, has won the presidential elections in Colombia on Sunday. He had vowed to bring social and economic change.

A former member of the M-19 guerrilla movement, leftist Gustavo Petro, has won the presidential elections in Colombia on Sunday. He had vowed to bring social and economic change. In the history of the country, Petro is the first progressive to achieve the feat. With a wide margin of 719,975 votes, 62-year-old Petro, who is a former mayor of capital Bogota, won against construction magnate Rodolfo Hernandez. In the polling carried out ahead of the vote, the two were technically tied. Petro got 50.5% votes while Hernandez bagged 47.3%. In a short video on social media, Hernandez accepted his defeat and said, "As I said during the campaign, I accept the results of this election." Watch WION's live TV here: Petro, who is currently a senator, has vowed to fight inequality with pension reforms, free university education and high taxes on unproductive land. He also looks to come up with a ban on new oil projects. Petro seems to have been tortured by the military when he was detained for involvement with the guerrillas. The running mate of Petro, Francia Marquez, will become the first Afro-Colombian woman vice-president. She is a single mother and former housekeeper. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Former guerrilla Gustavo Petro wins presidential elections in Colombia

Colombia elects its first leftist President as Gustavo Petro wins by 720,000 votes

Colombia elects its first leftist President as Gustavo Petro wins

Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's Colombia's first leftist leader

Environmental activist Francia Marquez, who was former leftist guerrilla Gustavo Petro's running mate in the Colombian election, will be the first black woman to become the vice president of the country.

Black people have been grossly underrepresented in politics even though they comprise 9.3 per cent of Colombia's population. 
&nbsp; 
Marquez, who is a single mother and former housekeeper, has promised to improve the lives of women, black and indigenous people, peasants, the gay community, and young people.

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Even though Marquez has pledged to improve women's rights and help the poor access health and education, it is unclear how much freedom the 40-year-old will have to carry them out as the position of vice president is nebulous in Colombia.

Petro, who repeatedly clashed with officials when he was Bogota's mayor, is a stubborn manager and presidents are free to assign ministries or other specialties to their second-in-command in Colombia.

Marquez, who won the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize in 2018 for opposing gold mining in her home municipality of Suarez, has received death threats from illegal armed groups.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-gustavo-petro-the-ex-guerilla-whos-top-contender-for-colombia-president-483749">Also see |&nbsp;Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's top contender for Colombia president</a>

Political analysts have predicted that Marquez is slated to lead a new equality ministry when the officials are chosen.

Andes director for the Washington Office on Latin America, Gimena Sanchez-Garzoli told Reuters that the two may clash once in office if Petro reneges on plans to give Marquez a policymaking role or micro-manages her decisions.

According to Sanchez-Garzoli, ''He has always put what he thinks is most important, or his idea of what things should be, before really getting a full consensus with others.''

In their coalition's March primary, Marquez came second to Petro with 783,000 votes. Tallying more ballots than the winner of the centrist primary, she has significant support on her own merits, according to Sanchez-Garzoli.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

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Environmental activist Francia Marquez, who was former leftist guerrilla Gustavo Petro's running mate in the Colombian election, will be the first black woman to become the vice president of the country.

Environmental activist Francia Marquez, who was former leftist guerrilla Gustavo Petro's running mate in the Colombian election, will be the first black woman to become the vice president of the country. Black people have been grossly underrepresented in politics even though they comprise 9.3 per cent of Colombia's population. Marquez, who is a single mother and former housekeeper, has promised to improve the lives of women, black and indigenous people, peasants, the gay community, and young people. × Even though Marquez has pledged to improve women's rights and help the poor access health and education, it is unclear how much freedom the 40-year-old will have to carry them out as the position of vice president is nebulous in Colombia. Petro, who repeatedly clashed with officials when he was Bogota's mayor, is a stubborn manager and presidents are free to assign ministries or other specialties to their second-in-command in Colombia. Marquez, who won the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize in 2018 for opposing gold mining in her home municipality of Suarez, has received death threats from illegal armed groups. Also see | Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's top contender for Colombia president Political analysts have predicted that Marquez is slated to lead a new equality ministry when the officials are chosen. Andes director for the Washington Office on Latin America, Gimena Sanchez-Garzoli told Reuters that the two may clash once in office if Petro reneges on plans to give Marquez a policymaking role or micro-manages her decisions. According to Sanchez-Garzoli, ''He has always put what he thinks is most important, or his idea of what things should be, before really getting a full consensus with others.'' In their coalition's March primary, Marquez came second to Petro with 783,000 votes. Tallying more ballots than the winner of the centrist primary, she has significant support on her own merits, according to Sanchez-Garzoli. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Who is Francia Marquez, the first black Colombian vice president?

It is a battle of former mayors as Colombia goes to the polls on the today. On one side is Gustavo Petro a rebel-turned politician who was the former mayor of Bogota, on the other hand, is Rodolfo Hernández Suárez so-called TikTok king.

Colombia's Presidential elections: Second round of polls to begin today

Colombia's Presidential elections: Second round of polls to begin

It is a battle of former mayors as Colombia goes to the polls on the 19th of June. On one side is Gustavo Petro a rebel-turned politician who was the former mayor of Bogota, on the other hand, is Rodolfo Hernández Suárez so-called TikTok king.

Colombia's Historic Presidential Polls: Former Guerrilla vs 'TikTok King'

Only a day is left for the all-important presidential elections to kick off in Colombia which has been marked by death threats against candidates, scandals and accusations of fraud.

On June 19, hundreds and thousands of eligible people will come out to elect their next president. The elections are being viewed as a tight race between left-wing candidate Gustavo Petro and 77-year-old populist real estate magnate-turned-politician Rodolfo Hernandez, who has promised drastic budget cuts and jail for corrupt officials.

The latest polls show Hernández neck and neck with Petro, a former guerrilla fighter and veteran politician who had been the clear front-runner all year long.

The first round of voting took place in May this year where Petro won just over 40 per cent of the vote, while Hernandez secured 28 per cent, edging out Petro's expected competitor, the right-wing former Mayor of Medellin, Federico "Fico" Gutierrez. While the&nbsp;Incumbent President&nbsp;Iván Duque&nbsp;is ineligible for a second term.

Since none of the candidates won by an absolute majority, Petro and Hernandez will now face off in the second round of voting.

Here are all the details about the Colombian elections and the candidates.

Who is Gustavo Petro?

The 62-year-old leader is a former mayor of Bogota, whose 2022 bid marks his third presidential campaign, reports CNN.

His political campaign focused on radical overhaul of the country's economy to combat one of the highest inequality rates in the world.

Petro, a former guerrilla fighter, has framed his campaign around whether Colombia is ready to elect a revolutionary. He's campaigned on attracting foreign investment in clean energy, new technologies, transportation and telecommunications.

Rodolfo Hernández—the TikTok star

Hernández is real estate mogul and a former mayor. A self-proclaimed "King of TikTok”, the 77-year-old communicates via the social media app rather than conducting rallies and giving speeches.

He did not appear in several of the televised debates organised by Colombia's main broadcasters, and rarely gave interviews to foreign outlets.

In a recent&nbsp;interview&nbsp;on Colombian TV, he said that nearly all politicians were "traitors, liars, clowns and hypocrites and we are going to kick them out."

Pressing issues in this election

Colombia has been among the fastest growing countries in Latin America in recent years, but the people, especially poor and working families, have not befitted from this prosperity.

Petro is banking on frustrated voters who feel disillusioned by the country's economic outlook and who have suffered the most in the last four years, as wages stagnated under former president Duque's watch.

As a whole, the country is richer than it was since Duque came to power in 2018, however the value of the average worker's annual salary has dropped significantly as the Colombian peso has plunged 40 per cent in value against the dollar since, reports CNN.

That situation has only exacerbated by rising inflation and the war in Ukraine.

Hernandez, on the other hand, is also trying to exploit some voters' discontent with the traditional political system, his approach on the economy -- with a focus on corruption -- is more moderate than Petro's.

The election is also being held as the country's security situation is deteriorating.

The violence is tied to the country's narcotics production and trafficking, with Colombia's cocaine production having significantly increased in recent years.

How to restore state control over those areas —and fight back the cartels —is a key conversation in this election, and will prove a formidable challenge for the next president.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Only a day is left for the all-important presidential elections to kick off in Colombia which has been marked by death threats against candidates, scandals and accusations of fraud.

Only a day is left for the all-important presidential elections to kick off in Colombia which has been marked by death threats against candidates, scandals and accusations of fraud. On June 19, hundreds and thousands of eligible people will come out to elect their next president. The elections are being viewed as a tight race between left-wing candidate Gustavo Petro and 77-year-old populist real estate magnate-turned-politician Rodolfo Hernandez, who has promised drastic budget cuts and jail for corrupt officials. The latest polls show Hernández neck and neck with Petro, a former guerrilla fighter and veteran politician who had been the clear front-runner all year long. The first round of voting took place in May this year where Petro won just over 40 per cent of the vote, while Hernandez secured 28 per cent, edging out Petro's expected competitor, the right-wing former Mayor of Medellin, Federico "Fico" Gutierrez. While the Incumbent President Iván Duque is ineligible for a second term. Since none of the candidates won by an absolute majority, Petro and Hernandez will now face off in the second round of voting. Here are all the details about the Colombian elections and the candidates. Who is Gustavo Petro? The 62-year-old leader is a former mayor of Bogota, whose 2022 bid marks his third presidential campaign, reports CNN. His political campaign focused on radical overhaul of the country's economy to combat one of the highest inequality rates in the world. Petro, a former guerrilla fighter, has framed his campaign around whether Colombia is ready to elect a revolutionary. He's campaigned on attracting foreign investment in clean energy, new technologies, transportation and telecommunications. Rodolfo Hernández—the TikTok star Hernández is real estate mogul and a former mayor. A self-proclaimed "King of TikTok”, the 77-year-old communicates via the social media app rather than conducting rallies and giving speeches. He did not appear in several of the televised debates organised by Colombia's main broadcasters, and rarely gave interviews to foreign outlets. In a recent interview on Colombian TV, he said that nearly all politicians were "traitors, liars, clowns and hypocrites and we are going to kick them out." Pressing issues in this election Colombia has been among the fastest growing countries in Latin America in recent years, but the people, especially poor and working families, have not befitted from this prosperity. Petro is banking on frustrated voters who feel disillusioned by the country's economic outlook and who have suffered the most in the last four years, as wages stagnated under former president Duque's watch. As a whole, the country is richer than it was since Duque came to power in 2018, however the value of the average worker's annual salary has dropped significantly as the Colombian peso has plunged 40 per cent in value against the dollar since, reports CNN. That situation has only exacerbated by rising inflation and the war in Ukraine. Hernandez, on the other hand, is also trying to exploit some voters' discontent with the traditional political system, his approach on the economy -- with a focus on corruption -- is more moderate than Petro's. The election is also being held as the country's security situation is deteriorating. The violence is tied to the country's narcotics production and trafficking, with Colombia's cocaine production having significantly increased in recent years. How to restore state control over those areas —and fight back the cartels —is a key conversation in this election, and will prove a formidable challenge for the next president. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Gustavo Petro vs Rodolfo Hernandez: Here’s all you need to know about Colombian presidential elections

In an unexpected turn of events, a former leftist rebel and populist businessman has now taken the top two spots in Colombia's presidential elections that were held on the 29th of May.

Colombia Elections: Leftist Gustavo Petro claims top spot, businessman Hernandez finishes 2nd

Gustavo Petro, a former Bogota mayor, has won the first round of the presidential votes in the Colombian election. The 62-year-old has secured 40.3 per cent votes and now has a shot at becoming Colombia's first-ever leftist president.

Trailing behind Petro in second place is surprise contender and businessman Rodolfo Hernandez, with 28 per cent of the votes.

The second round of voting, which will take place on June 19, will decide who will emerge victorious.

Hernandez, a 77-year-old millionaire and himself an ex-mayor, ran on an anti-corruption platform and edged out right-winger Federico Gutierrez, a former mayor of the second city Medellin.

Petro, who is a former member of the M-19 guerrilla movement, has vowed "real change" if elected, and promised to pursue "social justice and economic stability."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/petro-vs-gutierrez-first-phase-of-colombian-presidential-elections-to-begin-soon-483209/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"A company cannot grow if society is impoverished. Profits cannot grow sustainably if the majority of the population (suffers from) hunger," he said.&nbsp;

Hernandez's late surge has complicated Petro's road to the presidency, according to political analysts.

"We do not want to lose the country and we will not put at risk the future of Colombia, of our families, our children," Gutierrez said.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/polarised-election-bogota-voters-weigh-presidential-options-483108">'Polarised election': Bogota voters weigh presidential options</a>

Over 8.5 million Colombians clamoring for "change" voted for Petro, while Hernandez, who is not aligned to a political party, garnered 5.9 million votes.

In the 2018 presidential election, Ivan Duque had defeated Petro but is now leaving office with record disapproval numbers after a constitutionally limited single, four-year term.

According to the World Bank, approximately 40 percent of Colombia's 50 million people live in poverty, and the country has one of the highest levels of income inequality in the world.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Gustavo Petro, a former Bogota mayor, has won the first round of the presidential votes in the Colombian election. The 62-year-old has secured 40.3 per cent votes and now has a shot at becoming Colombia's first-ever leftist president.

Gustavo Petro, a former Bogota mayor, has won the first round of the presidential votes in the Colombian election. The 62-year-old has secured 40.3 per cent votes and now has a shot at becoming Colombia's first-ever leftist president. Trailing behind Petro in second place is surprise contender and businessman Rodolfo Hernandez, with 28 per cent of the votes. The second round of voting, which will take place on June 19, will decide who will emerge victorious. Hernandez, a 77-year-old millionaire and himself an ex-mayor, ran on an anti-corruption platform and edged out right-winger Federico Gutierrez, a former mayor of the second city Medellin. Petro, who is a former member of the M-19 guerrilla movement, has vowed "real change" if elected, and promised to pursue "social justice and economic stability." "A company cannot grow if society is impoverished. Profits cannot grow sustainably if the majority of the population (suffers from) hunger," he said. Hernandez's late surge has complicated Petro's road to the presidency, according to political analysts. "We do not want to lose the country and we will not put at risk the future of Colombia, of our families, our children," Gutierrez said. Also see | 'Polarised election': Bogota voters weigh presidential options Over 8.5 million Colombians clamoring for "change" voted for Petro, while Hernandez, who is not aligned to a political party, garnered 5.9 million votes. In the 2018 presidential election, Ivan Duque had defeated Petro but is now leaving office with record disapproval numbers after a constitutionally limited single, four-year term. According to the World Bank, approximately 40 percent of Colombia's 50 million people live in poverty, and the country has one of the highest levels of income inequality in the world. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Colombia election: Leftist Gustavo Petro wins first round of presidential vote

Colombians voted for senator and former guerrilla Gustavo Petro as the left's presidential nominee by a wide margin on Sunday, making him the front runner in an election that could yield the country's first-ever leftist leader in May.

As predicted, the 61-year-old came out on top in the primaries -- called inter-party "consultations" -- which took place alongside elections for the Senate and House of Representatives, currently in the hands of right-wing parties.

But leftist candidates were projected to win the most seats in&nbsp;Colombia's Senate, as well as contending for second place in the lower house, partial results showed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-level-visits-from-colombia-mexico-to-india-in-few-weeks-461993">High level visits from Colombia, Mexico to India in few weeks</a>

With more than 90 percent of polling stations counted, the left's Historical Pact coalition is set to win 17 of the 102 seats in the upper house, according to electoral authority figures.&nbsp;

In the lower house, it looks set to take 25 of the 165 seats in a tie with the Conservatives and behind the Liberals.

Nearly 39 million of&nbsp;Colombia's 50 million inhabitants were eligible to vote in a complex but critical election in a country plagued by violence and growing poverty levels.

"Colombia&nbsp;saw an election day with transparency and respect for rights," election authority head Alexander Vega said, referring to a largely incident-free vote.

Rejection of violence

Outgoing President Ivan Duque -- who called on Colombians to vote as a "rejection of violence" through the "triumph of democracy" -- had promised safety "guarantees" for the non-compulsory vote.

The polls came with the president and legislature both at rock-bottom levels of public support.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombia-says-at-least-23-farc-dissidents-killed-in-operation-456571">Colombia says at least 23 FARC dissidents killed in operation</a>

Colombia&nbsp;has always been ruled by the political right. But polls show that Petro -- a former guerrilla, ex-Bogota mayor and senator -- stands a real chance of winning.

Centrist Ingrid Betancourt, who was once held hostage by the guerrillas of the now-defunct Revolutionary Armed Forces of&nbsp;Colombia&nbsp;(FARC), won her coalition's nomination Sunday. She presents herself as an alternative to both the ruling right and Petro.

Sunday's process is to yield three presidential contenders from 15 candidates hoping to represent groups of politically aligned parties -- one each for the left, right and center.

Three others have already been chosen by their respective groupings.

Six finalists will face off in a first round of presidential elections on May 29, which will be followed by a runoff on June 19 if no one wins an outright majority.

Petro came away with more than 80 percent of the vote for the Historical Pact coalition, winning against environmentalist Francia Marquez, who snagged 15 percent of the left's vote, to represent the group at the polls this spring.&nbsp;

&nbsp;First leftist president?&nbsp;

Voters flocked to the polls in Bogota, although heavy rains at midday threatened turnout.

"I vote to change this Congress, where it is always the same people who do nothing" for years, nurse Carolina Lopez, 30, told AFP.

Colombia's distrust of the left is widely associated with FARC and other rebel groups that fought the government in a nearly six-decade civil conflict.

"When the government is unpopular, there is alternation and the opposition wins, but in&nbsp;Colombia, this is new: the left has never really been in a position to win an election," said analyst Yann Basset of the Rosario University in Bogota.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombian-court-decriminalises-abortion-up-to-24-weeks-of-gestation-455226">Colombian court decriminalises abortion up to 24 weeks of gestation</a>

In 2018, Petro lost the presidential race to Duque, who is leaving office as his country's most unpopular president in history following a year marked by social unrest and a violent police crackdown that drew international condemnation.

"Today, change starts at the polls, with a vote that supports hope and life in&nbsp;Colombia," Petro said while voting.

It is also Betancourt's second presidential run: she was abducted 20 years ago while campaigning and held captive in the jungle for more than six years.

Her vice presidential running mate is set to be retired colonel Jose Luis Esparza, who rescued Betancourt from her FARC captors.

Colombian presidents serve a non-renewable four-year term.

At midday, the government said there was "total normality" in voting throughout the country. But the army reported two soldiers had been killed and another two wounded in bomb attacks in southern&nbsp;Colombia.&nbsp;

The country's election authority confirmed an attempted cyberattack against its website before polling had begun, which they said was immediately controlled.

Watch |&nbsp;Colombia's highest court legalises abortion up to 24 weeks of pregnancy

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/colombias-highest-court-legalises-abortion-up-to-24-weeks-of-pregnancy-455345/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

And Interior Minister Daniel Palacios said there had been 662 reports of incidents related to the vote, including 166 complaints, 120 cases of voter coercion and 120 cases of attempted bribery.

&nbsp;Economy dominates&nbsp;

Duque's successor faces a multitude of challenges, not least of which is a new cycle of murders and kidnappings as violence has surged despite the 2016 peace deal that disarmed the FARC and officially ended the civil war.

Colombians voted for senator and former guerrilla Gustavo Petro as the left's presidential nominee by a wide margin on Sunday, making him the front runner in an election that could yield the country's first-ever leftist leader in May.

Colombians voted for senator and former guerrilla Gustavo Petro as the left's presidential nominee by a wide margin on Sunday, making him the front runner in an election that could yield the country's first-ever leftist leader in May. As predicted, the 61-year-old came out on top in the primaries -- called inter-party "consultations" -- which took place alongside elections for the Senate and House of Representatives, currently in the hands of right-wing parties. But leftist candidates were projected to win the most seats in Colombia's Senate, as well as contending for second place in the lower house, partial results showed. Also read | High level visits from Colombia, Mexico to India in few weeks With more than 90 percent of polling stations counted, the left's Historical Pact coalition is set to win 17 of the 102 seats in the upper house, according to electoral authority figures. In the lower house, it looks set to take 25 of the 165 seats in a tie with the Conservatives and behind the Liberals. Nearly 39 million of Colombia's 50 million inhabitants were eligible to vote in a complex but critical election in a country plagued by violence and growing poverty levels. "Colombia saw an election day with transparency and respect for rights," election authority head Alexander Vega said, referring to a largely incident-free vote. Rejection of violence Outgoing President Ivan Duque -- who called on Colombians to vote as a "rejection of violence" through the "triumph of democracy" -- had promised safety "guarantees" for the non-compulsory vote. The polls came with the president and legislature both at rock-bottom levels of public support. Also read | Colombia says at least 23 FARC dissidents killed in operation Colombia has always been ruled by the political right. But polls show that Petro -- a former guerrilla, ex-Bogota mayor and senator -- stands a real chance of winning. Centrist Ingrid Betancourt, who was once held hostage by the guerrillas of the now-defunct Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), won her coalition's nomination Sunday. She presents herself as an alternative to both the ruling right and Petro. Sunday's process is to yield three presidential contenders from 15 candidates hoping to represent groups of politically aligned parties -- one each for the left, right and center. Three others have already been chosen by their respective groupings. Six finalists will face off in a first round of presidential elections on May 29, which will be followed by a runoff on June 19 if no one wins an outright majority. Petro came away with more than 80 percent of the vote for the Historical Pact coalition, winning against environmentalist Francia Marquez, who snagged 15 percent of the left's vote, to represent the group at the polls this spring. First leftist president? Voters flocked to the polls in Bogota, although heavy rains at midday threatened turnout. "I vote to change this Congress, where it is always the same people who do nothing" for years, nurse Carolina Lopez, 30, told AFP. Colombia's distrust of the left is widely associated with FARC and other rebel groups that fought the government in a nearly six-decade civil conflict. "When the government is unpopular, there is alternation and the opposition wins, but in Colombia, this is new: the left has never really been in a position to win an election," said analyst Yann Basset of the Rosario University in Bogota. Also read | Colombian court decriminalises abortion up to 24 weeks of gestation In 2018, Petro lost the presidential race to Duque, who is leaving office as his country's most unpopular president in history following a year marked by social unrest and a violent police crackdown that drew international condemnation. "Today, change starts at the polls, with a vote that supports hope and life in Colombia," Petro said while voting. It is also Betancourt's second presidential run: she was abducted 20 years ago while campaigning and held captive in the jungle for more than six years. Her vice presidential running mate is set to be retired colonel Jose Luis Esparza, who rescued Betancourt from her FARC captors. Colombian presidents serve a non-renewable four-year term. At midday, the government said there was "total normality" in voting throughout the country. But the army reported two soldiers had been killed and another two wounded in bomb attacks in southern Colombia. The country's election authority confirmed an attempted cyberattack against its website before polling had begun, which they said was immediately controlled. Watch | Colombia's highest court legalises abortion up to 24 weeks of pregnancy And Interior Minister Daniel Palacios said there had been 662 reports of incidents related to the vote, including 166 complaints, 120 cases of voter coercion and 120 cases of attempted bribery. Economy dominates Duque's successor faces a multitude of challenges, not least of which is a new cycle of murders and kidnappings as violence has surged despite the 2016 peace deal that disarmed the FARC and officially ended the civil war.

Ex-guerrilla Petro front runner in Colombia presidential primaries

Conservative candidate Ivan Duque won the first round of Colombia's presidential election&nbsp;Sunday&nbsp;but fell short of the 50 per cent threshold needed to avoid a runoff next month.

The 41-year-old senator will face former guerrilla Gustavo Petro on&nbsp;June 17, the first leftist candidate to contest a runoff in Colombia.

Duque polled 39.7 per cent of the votes, compared to Petro's 25 per cent, in a poll which showed deep divisions over a peace deal with former rebel movement FARC.

It was the first presidential poll in half a century free of the threat of the FARC, though Duque, 41, has campaigned strongly on a pledge to rewrite a peace agreement with the group.

Polling was "totally normal," said electoral authority chairman Juan Carlos Galindo. Turnout was a higher-than-usual 53.2 per cent in a country traditionally plagued by voter apathy.

The peaceful election was an achievement praised by outgoing President Juan Manuel Santos after casting his ballot in Bogota.

Ironically, the peace Santos made with the FARC, which is now a political party, has opened sharp divisions, reflected in the two candidates to succeed him.

Duque has vowed to rewrite an accord he sees as too lenient on a group that waged a decades-long war of terror in Colombia before transforming itself into a political party.

Duque's pledges to defend private enterprise and introduce tax cuts also won him support.

"I want a country of legality, a full-on fight against corruption, a country where peace can breathe throughout the land," said Duque after casting his ballot in Bogota.

Outside one Bogota polling station, Paula Rubio, 38, said she voted for Duque "to maintain order in the country."

Petro, a former member of the disbanded M-19 rebel group, defied expectations in a country where presidential elections have traditionally been the domain of the right.

His total of more than 4.8 million votes is almost double the previous best showing for the left in a presidential election, in 2006.

"It's obviously going to be very polarized in the second round," said analyst Andres Macais, with both sides scrambling to form alliances with defeated candidates.

Conservatives backing Duque have a majority in the Congress after sweeping the legislative elections in March.

Leftist candidates Sergio Fajardo, a former Medellin mayor who polled 23.7 per cent of the vote, and peace negotiator Humberto De la Calle, have previously refused to ally with Petro.

Petro said he wanted a Colombia "present and future" without hatred or vengeance and to leave behind "the machinery of corruption."

The 58-year-old rallied many Colombians with his campaign speeches against inequality and corruption, making him the country's first leftist candidate going to the second round of a presidential poll.

"I voted for Petro... who has helped the poor people," said domestic worker Gladys Cortes, 60.

Analysts said turnout could be a key factor in the second round.

"There is an increase in participation, but abstention is still high, we will have to see if it is still possible to move that absentee vote towards Petro. The second round is going to be very close," said analyst Medofilo Medina.

Santos -- who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for the 2016 deal with the FARC -- steps down in August.

Duque, a grey-haired senator and former economist, is backed by the Democratic Center party of former president Alvaro Uribe, which swept legislative elections in March. If successful, he can count on the support of Congress.

Uribe fell out with onetime ally Santos over his drive for peace with FARC, setting up his own party in 2013.

Many voters see Uribe's guiding hand behind the inexperienced Duque's campaign. Like Santos, the 65-year-old Uribe is constitutionally precluded from seeking a third term.

Colombia, ravaged by corruption and glaring inequality, is still struggling to emerge from the longest armed conflict in the Americas.

The world's leading producer of cocaine, the country continues to battle armed groups vying for control of lucrative narco-trafficking routes in areas FARC once dominated.

The peace deal, in effect for little more than a year, remains fragile.&nbsp;

The FARC, now in the form of a political party, did not win much support in March legislative elections, failing to add to the 10 parliamentary seats it was awarded in the peace deal.

"What we Colombians want is that those who have committed crimes against humanity be punished by proportional penalties, which is incompatible with political representation, so that there is no impunity," Duque recently told AFP.

The senator has pledged to eradicate "the cancer of corruption" and to revive a sluggish economy while vowing to defend traditional family values.

Petro's crowds grew steadily as his campaign went on, in what some analysts see as public support for the peace deal and the rehabilitation of FARC as a political party.

"Society has overcome the fear of violence and terror, and what we are seeing today is the political expression of that, filling public places and drawing crowds," Petro told AFP in the final days of his campaign.

The peaceful election was an achievement praised by outgoing President Juan Manuel Santos after casting his ballot in Bogota

Conservative candidate Ivan Duque won the first round of Colombia's presidential election Sunday but fell short of the 50 per cent threshold needed to avoid a runoff next month. The 41-year-old senator will face former guerrilla Gustavo Petro on June 17, the first leftist candidate to contest a runoff in Colombia. Duque polled 39.7 per cent of the votes, compared to Petro's 25 per cent, in a poll which showed deep divisions over a peace deal with former rebel movement FARC. It was the first presidential poll in half a century free of the threat of the FARC, though Duque, 41, has campaigned strongly on a pledge to rewrite a peace agreement with the group. Polling was "totally normal," said electoral authority chairman Juan Carlos Galindo. Turnout was a higher-than-usual 53.2 per cent in a country traditionally plagued by voter apathy. The peaceful election was an achievement praised by outgoing President Juan Manuel Santos after casting his ballot in Bogota. Ironically, the peace Santos made with the FARC, which is now a political party, has opened sharp divisions, reflected in the two candidates to succeed him. Duque has vowed to rewrite an accord he sees as too lenient on a group that waged a decades-long war of terror in Colombia before transforming itself into a political party. Duque's pledges to defend private enterprise and introduce tax cuts also won him support. "I want a country of legality, a full-on fight against corruption, a country where peace can breathe throughout the land," said Duque after casting his ballot in Bogota. Outside one Bogota polling station, Paula Rubio, 38, said she voted for Duque "to maintain order in the country." Petro, a former member of the disbanded M-19 rebel group, defied expectations in a country where presidential elections have traditionally been the domain of the right. His total of more than 4.8 million votes is almost double the previous best showing for the left in a presidential election, in 2006. "It's obviously going to be very polarized in the second round," said analyst Andres Macais, with both sides scrambling to form alliances with defeated candidates. Conservatives backing Duque have a majority in the Congress after sweeping the legislative elections in March. Leftist candidates Sergio Fajardo, a former Medellin mayor who polled 23.7 per cent of the vote, and peace negotiator Humberto De la Calle, have previously refused to ally with Petro. Petro said he wanted a Colombia "present and future" without hatred or vengeance and to leave behind "the machinery of corruption." The 58-year-old rallied many Colombians with his campaign speeches against inequality and corruption, making him the country's first leftist candidate going to the second round of a presidential poll. "I voted for Petro... who has helped the poor people," said domestic worker Gladys Cortes, 60. Analysts said turnout could be a key factor in the second round. "There is an increase in participation, but abstention is still high, we will have to see if it is still possible to move that absentee vote towards Petro. The second round is going to be very close," said analyst Medofilo Medina. Santos -- who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for the 2016 deal with the FARC -- steps down in August. Duque, a grey-haired senator and former economist, is backed by the Democratic Center party of former president Alvaro Uribe, which swept legislative elections in March. If successful, he can count on the support of Congress. Uribe fell out with onetime ally Santos over his drive for peace with FARC, setting up his own party in 2013. Many voters see Uribe's guiding hand behind the inexperienced Duque's campaign. Like Santos, the 65-year-old Uribe is constitutionally precluded from seeking a third term. Colombia, ravaged by corruption and glaring inequality, is still struggling to emerge from the longest armed conflict in the Americas. The world's leading producer of cocaine, the country continues to battle armed groups vying for control of lucrative narco-trafficking routes in areas FARC once dominated. The peace deal, in effect for little more than a year, remains fragile. The FARC, now in the form of a political party, did not win much support in March legislative elections, failing to add to the 10 parliamentary seats it was awarded in the peace deal. "What we Colombians want is that those who have committed crimes against humanity be punished by proportional penalties, which is incompatible with political representation, so that there is no impunity," Duque recently told AFP. The senator has pledged to eradicate "the cancer of corruption" and to revive a sluggish economy while vowing to defend traditional family values. Petro's crowds grew steadily as his campaign went on, in what some analysts see as public support for the peace deal and the rehabilitation of FARC as a political party. "Society has overcome the fear of violence and terror, and what we are seeing today is the political expression of that, filling public places and drawing crowds," Petro told AFP in the final days of his campaign.

Anti-FARC conservative wins in Colombia faces leftist in runoff

Colombians vote Sunday in a divisive presidential election likely to impact on the government's fragile peace deal with the former rebel movement FARC.

Conservative front-runner Ivan Duque has vowed to rewrite an accord he sees as too lenient on a group that waged a decades-long war of terror on Colombians, before it transformed into a political party.

With 41 per cent of voter preferences, Duque takes a 12 point lead into the election over his main challenger Gustavo Petro, a leftist former Bogota mayor who backs the deal.

Petro, a former member of the disbanded M-19 rebel group, has been the surprise package in the campaign, upturning expectations in a country where presidential elections have traditionally been the domain of the right.

The 58-year-old rallied many Colombians with his campaign speeches against inequality and corruption, making him the country's first leftist candidate with a chance of going to the second round of a presidential poll.

Neither candidate is believed to have enough momentum to win outright in Sunday's first round, making a runoff likely on June 17.

Santos stepping down

The winner will succeed Juan Manuel Santos -- the president who signed the 2016 deal with the FARC and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize -- when he steps down in August.

"These elections have an enormous significance for a country where hope is reborn, and we must continue to build peace," Santos, 66, said on Twitter as campaigning ended.

Duque, a grey-haired senator and former economist, is backed by the Democratic Center party of former president Alvaro Uribe, which swept the polls in legislative elections in March. If successful, he can count on the support of Congress.

Uribe fell out with once-close ally Santos over his drive for peace with FARC, setting up his own party in 2013.

Many voters see the guiding hand of Uribe behind the inexperienced Duque's campaign. Like Santos, the 65-year-old Uribe is constitutionally precluded from seeking a third term.

"If Duque was the candidate of another party, he would not be leading the polls," said analyst Andres Macias of Externado University, highlighting the "great political capital" of the controversial but popular former head of state.

Colombia, ravaged by corruption and glaring inequality, is still struggling to emerge from the longest armed conflict in the Americas.

The world's leading producer of cocaine, the country remains contorted by an ongoing struggle against a slew of armed groups vying for control of lucrative narco-trafficking routes in areas once dominated by FARC guerrillas.

No impunity

The peace deal, in effect for little more than a year, remains fragile. The FARC has transformed into a political party which failed to win much public support in March legislative elections, failing to add to the 10 parliamentary seats it was awarded as part of the peace deal.

"What we Colombians want is that those who have committed crimes against humanity be punished by proportional penalties, which is incompatible with political representation, so that there is no impunity," Duque told AFP during campaigning recently.

The young senator has pledged to eradicate "the cancer of corruption" and work to revive a sluggish economy, in campaign speeches which focused on the defense of traditional family values.

Petro drew bigger crowds to his rallies the longer his campaign went on, in what some analysts see as public support for the peace deal and the rehabilitation of FARC as a political party.

"Society has overcome the fear of violence and terror, and what we are seeing today is the political expression of that, filling public places and drawing crowds," Petro told AFP in the final days of his campaign.

Analysts say the men are at opposite ends of the political spectrum and are likely to prevail over the four other candidates, who include former vice president German Vargas Lleras.&nbsp

"Two candidates are clearly in the lead and, except for a surprise or a big error in the polls, Petro and Duque will go to the second round, although there is also the possibility that Petro wins outright," political scientist Nicolas Liendo told AFP.

The country's last active rebel group, the National Liberation Army (ELN), has announced a ceasefire for the polls. Nevertheless, security has been tightened, with 150,000 troops being deployed.

Polls are due to open at 8:00 am (1300 GMT) and close at 4:00 pm.

Conservative front-runner Ivan Duque has vowed to rewrite an accord he sees as too lenient on a group that waged a decades-long war of terror on Colombians, before it transformed into a political party

Colombians vote Sunday in a divisive presidential election likely to impact on the government's fragile peace deal with the former rebel movement FARC. Conservative front-runner Ivan Duque has vowed to rewrite an accord he sees as too lenient on a group that waged a decades-long war of terror on Colombians, before it transformed into a political party. With 41 per cent of voter preferences, Duque takes a 12 point lead into the election over his main challenger Gustavo Petro, a leftist former Bogota mayor who backs the deal. Petro, a former member of the disbanded M-19 rebel group, has been the surprise package in the campaign, upturning expectations in a country where presidential elections have traditionally been the domain of the right. The 58-year-old rallied many Colombians with his campaign speeches against inequality and corruption, making him the country's first leftist candidate with a chance of going to the second round of a presidential poll. Neither candidate is believed to have enough momentum to win outright in Sunday's first round, making a runoff likely on June 17. Santos stepping down The winner will succeed Juan Manuel Santos -- the president who signed the 2016 deal with the FARC and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize -- when he steps down in August. "These elections have an enormous significance for a country where hope is reborn, and we must continue to build peace," Santos, 66, said on Twitter as campaigning ended. Duque, a grey-haired senator and former economist, is backed by the Democratic Center party of former president Alvaro Uribe, which swept the polls in legislative elections in March. If successful, he can count on the support of Congress. Uribe fell out with once-close ally Santos over his drive for peace with FARC, setting up his own party in 2013. Many voters see the guiding hand of Uribe behind the inexperienced Duque's campaign. Like Santos, the 65-year-old Uribe is constitutionally precluded from seeking a third term. "If Duque was the candidate of another party, he would not be leading the polls," said analyst Andres Macias of Externado University, highlighting the "great political capital" of the controversial but popular former head of state. Colombia, ravaged by corruption and glaring inequality, is still struggling to emerge from the longest armed conflict in the Americas. The world's leading producer of cocaine, the country remains contorted by an ongoing struggle against a slew of armed groups vying for control of lucrative narco-trafficking routes in areas once dominated by FARC guerrillas. No impunity The peace deal, in effect for little more than a year, remains fragile. The FARC has transformed into a political party which failed to win much public support in March legislative elections, failing to add to the 10 parliamentary seats it was awarded as part of the peace deal. "What we Colombians want is that those who have committed crimes against humanity be punished by proportional penalties, which is incompatible with political representation, so that there is no impunity," Duque told AFP during campaigning recently. The young senator has pledged to eradicate "the cancer of corruption" and work to revive a sluggish economy, in campaign speeches which focused on the defense of traditional family values. Petro drew bigger crowds to his rallies the longer his campaign went on, in what some analysts see as public support for the peace deal and the rehabilitation of FARC as a political party. "Society has overcome the fear of violence and terror, and what we are seeing today is the political expression of that, filling public places and drawing crowds," Petro told AFP in the final days of his campaign. Analysts say the men are at opposite ends of the political spectrum and are likely to prevail over the four other candidates, who include former vice president German Vargas Lleras. "Two candidates are clearly in the lead and, except for a surprise or a big error in the polls, Petro and Duque will go to the second round, although there is also the possibility that Petro wins outright," political scientist Nicolas Liendo told AFP. The country's last active rebel group, the National Liberation Army (ELN), has announced a ceasefire for the polls. Nevertheless, security has been tightened, with 150,000 troops being deployed. Polls are due to open at 8:00 am (1300 GMT) and close at 4:00 pm.

Colombia presidential vote poses test for FARC peace deal

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