Two campaign workers for Colombian presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella have been killed in Meta department, raising fresh concerns over political violence less than two weeks before the country’s May 31 election.
The victims were identified by Colombia’s Ombudsman’s Office as Rogers Mauricio Devia Escobar, a former mayor of Cubarral, and his adviser, Eder Fabián Cardona López. Authorities said the two men were shot on Friday night in a rural area of Cubarral, about 170 kilometres south of Bogotá.
De la Espriella, a right-wing candidate, said the men were members of his campaign and condemned the killings in a post on X. He said they had “walked the streets defending democracy, freedom and the hope of millions of Colombians,” adding that their “only crime” was refusing to submit to violence.
Authorities have not publicly identified those responsible. Reuters reported that de la Espriella blamed a dissident faction of the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, but did not provide evidence.
The Ombudsman’s Office also reported another attack against a former mayoral candidate in the area, without giving further details. It warned that such violence could affect political rights and democratic participation as Colombia heads toward a highly contested presidential vote.
Meta has long been affected by armed groups, coca trafficking and disputes over territorial control. The region has seen activity by FARC dissidents and other criminal organisations, despite the 2016 peace agreement that led the main FARC guerrilla group to disarm.
The killings come as security has become a central issue in the presidential campaign to succeed President Gustavo Petro, who is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election. Polls show left-wing Senator Iván Cepeda leading the race, with de la Espriella and centre-right Senator Paloma Valencia among the main challengers.
Several candidates have reported threats during the campaign, and front-runners are travelling with heavy security. The violence has revived memories of Colombia’s long history of attacks on political leaders, campaign workers and activists during election periods.
The Ombudsman’s Office said threats, intimidation and killings weaken democratic debate and place political and social leaders at risk. With the election approaching, authorities are under pressure to protect candidates, campaign staff and voters in areas where armed groups still exert influence.
