Colombia’s Historic Pact Sets October Primary Ahead of 2026 Presidential Race
Colombia’s Historic Pact will hold an open primary on October 26, 2025, to choose its nominee for the 2026 elections and prepare for a broader progressive coalition.
Delegates from Colombia’s Historic Pact meet in Bogotá to define the rules for selecting a 2026 presidential candidate. Photo: @ELTIEMPO
July 20, 2025 Hour: 7:02 am
Colombia’s leftist coalition, the Historic Pact, will hold an open primary on October 26, 2025, to select its presidential candidate for the 2026 elections—part of a strategy to unify progressive forces and extend the political project launched under President Gustavo Petro.
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During its national convention held in Bogotá, the Historic Pact formalized the process for choosing its next presidential nominee, marking the coalition’s first major electoral move since taking power in 2022.
The line-up of potential candidates reflects the coalition’s internal diversity. Among those expected to seek the nomination are former health and environment ministers Carolina Corcho and Susana Muhamad; former Medellín mayor Daniel Quintero; senators Gloria Flórez and María José Pizarro; former ambassador to Argentina Camilo Romero; and Gustavo Bolívar, who previously headed Colombia’s Social Prosperity Department.
To qualify for the primary, aspirants must belong to one of the coalition’s member parties, including Colombia Humana, the Patriotic Union, the Democratic Pole, and Independents. They must also declare they meet all legal requirements for candidacy, authorize background checks, and secure at least 50 endorsements from elected officials affiliated with the coalition—such as national legislators, regional deputies, city councilors, or district representatives.
The nominee chosen in the October consultation will move on to participate in a broader inter-party primary in March 2026, as part of a proposed “Broad Front” with other progressive movements. The aim is to consolidate a single candidacy capable of defeating right-wing contenders in either the first or second round of voting.
Colombia’s presidential elections are scheduled for May 31, 2026. If no candidate secures a majority, a runoff will be held on June 21. The elected president will take office on August 7.
The coalition’s emphasis on unity and grassroots participation mirrors broader political currents across Latin America, where leftist forces are increasingly seeking to build alliances to defend transformative agendas.
Author: MK
Source: EFE
