Right-wing presidential candidate Paloma Valencia is calling for unity among conservative voters as Colombia prepares for its presidential election this Sunday [1, 4].
Valencia's strategy targets a segment of the electorate that remains undecided between her and other right-leaning candidates. By positioning herself as a non-extremist alternative, she aims to consolidate the right-wing vote to prevent a fragmented result that could favor opposing political blocs [1, 2].
During her campaign closure events on May 24, Valencia said that her focus remains on the final result rather than temporary popularity metrics. "No estamos para ganar encuestas sino para ganar elecciones," she said [3].
Supporters have pointed to her approach as a way to lower national tensions. One supporter said that Valencia "no polariza al país y en su campaña caben todos" [2]. This sentiment reflects a broader desire among some conservative voters to avoid the deep social and political divisions that have characterized recent Colombian administrations [2, 3].
Campaign activities have spanned the country, with significant events reported in cities including Medellín and Barranquilla [4]. These rallies served as the final push to secure the loyalty of voters who are weighing Valencia against candidates like Abelardo de la Espriella [1].
As the election approaches, the ability of the right to unite behind a single figure remains a critical factor. Valencia has spent the final days of her campaign saying that a unified front is the only viable path to victory in the upcoming vote [3].
“"No estamos para ganar encuestas sino para ganar elecciones"”
The focus on 'non-polarization' suggests a strategic pivot to capture the moderate center-right, moving away from hardline rhetoric to broaden her appeal. If Valencia successfully consolidates these undecided voters, she could mitigate the risk of a split right-wing ticket, which historically allows candidates from the left or center to win with a plurality of the vote.
