Paloma Valencia, a senator and presidential candidate for the Centro Democrático party, proposed that the state assume payment for SOAT insurance.
These proposals signal a potential shift in the party's approach to social spending and political governance if Valencia wins the presidency. By suggesting state-funded insurance and a diverse cabinet, she is positioning herself to address broad national concerns regarding healthcare access and political polarization.
Speaking at the Caracol Televisión press room, Valencia said she has a vision for strengthening the national health system [1]. She said the government should take over the costs of the Mandatory Traffic Accident Insurance, known as SOAT, to alleviate the financial burden on citizens [1].
Beyond healthcare, the candidate focused on national security. Valencia said she would implement specific measures to combat kidnappings, which remain a critical security concern for the country [1], [2].
In a move that contrasts with some of the more rigid stances of her party, Valencia said she might appoint a minister from the political left in a future administration [1]. This suggestion indicates a willingness to form a broad-based government to ensure stability and inclusivity across the political spectrum.
Valencia also used the press conference to respond to questions regarding tax reductions and other matters of national interest [2]. Her platform seeks to balance fiscal adjustments with expanded state support for essential services like health and security [2].
Throughout the event, the candidate said there is a need for a more robust health infrastructure to ensure that services are accessible to all citizens regardless of their economic status [1], [3].
“Paloma Valencia proposed that the state assume payment for SOAT insurance.”
Valencia's proposals represent a strategic attempt to broaden the appeal of the Centro Democrático party. By blending traditional security priorities with populist health measures and a gesture toward political pluralism, she is attempting to pivot from a purely oppositional role to a governing one that could attract voters beyond her core conservative base.
