The Organization of American States (OAS) Electoral Observation Mission warned of increased threats and violence against presidential candidates in Colombia.

This escalation occurs during the final phase of the campaign, potentially compromising the safety of candidates and the integrity of the democratic process. The violence is linked to territorial disputes and unforeseen effects of the peace process.

Observers expressed alarm over the security climate as the country prepares for presidential elections on Sunday, May 31, 2026 [3]. The mission specifically highlighted a rise in direct attacks against political leaders, despite some reports suggesting a broader reduction in general electoral cycle attacks [1].

"We strongly reject the death threats against presidential candidates and the vandalism of their campaign headquarters," the OAS Electoral Observation Mission said [1].

Geographic vulnerability remains a primary concern for the mission. Data indicates that 10% of Colombian municipalities are currently at extreme electoral risk [1]. Antioquia is ranked as the second department with the highest number of municipalities facing this extreme risk [1].

Political figures have called for immediate government action. Former President Álvaro Uribe said the threats are unacceptable and must be investigated with the greatest diligence [2].

International observers are also monitoring the situation. A U.S. State Department spokesperson said the United States is closely monitoring the security situation and urges all parties to ensure the safety of the candidates [2].

While some reports characterize these threats as isolated incidents that have not yet compromised the process, the OAS mission maintains that the risk is generalized across several high-risk regions [1, 2].

“"We strongly reject the death threats against presidential candidates and the vandalism of their campaign headquarters,"”

The concentration of risk in 10% of municipalities and the specific vulnerability of the Antioquia region suggest that electoral violence in Colombia remains tied to localized territorial control. The discrepancy between reports of 'isolated incidents' and the OAS's 'generalized risk' warning indicates a critical tension in how the Colombian government and international observers perceive the stability of the current democratic transition.