The Colombian government has offered a reward of 1 billion pesos—approximately $277,000—for information that helps identify those responsible for recent death threats against presidential candidates.
Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez announced the bounty on Sunday, stating that authorities intend to "guarantee a secure electoral process" and neutralize risks to the upcoming first-round vote on May 31.
Recent social media posts by former President Álvaro Uribe highlighted a disturbing trend of targeted intimidation. Uribe shared a funeral wreath and a fake obituary for Senator Paloma Valencia, calling out the perpetrators as "cowardly bandits."
"We cannot allow crime to continue doing as it pleases," Uribe said, noting that other political figures, including Abelardo de la Espriella and María Fernanda, have also faced threats.
De la Espriella, a candidate for the Defensores de la Patria movement, echoed these sentiments, accusing the current administration and its allies of using "narco-terrorism" to undermine democracy.
Escalating political violence
The Electoral Observation Mission (MOE) reported over 100 instances of aggression against political actors across the country in 2025.
This wave of violence follows a June 7 attack on presidential pre-candidate Miguel Uribe, which heightened fears regarding the stability of the democratic process.
Interior Minister Armando Benedetti denied claims of political bias in security efforts, asserting that the government has provided protections for all candidates, including the opposition.
"The authorities are acting to clarify these facts and reinforce protection," Benedetti said on X.
In response to the rising tension, the National Protection Unit (UNP) announced it will increase security measures for all 14 registered presidential candidates and their running mates.
Former President Iván Duque described the threats as a "direct attack on Colombian democracy" and a regression to the country's darkest eras.
Senator Valencia stated that while the threats are severe, they will not stop her campaign to fight for a country free from fear.
