Colombia’s presidential runoff will be a yet another referendum on peace

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There were five candidates competing in Colombia’s May 27 presidential election, but peace was the main question on the ballot.

In late 2016, the Colombian government signed a controversial accord with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC, a guerrilla group. Election season closely followed the peace deal – an incredibly divisive issue that was defeated at referendum just over a month before Congress approved it – turning it into a polarizing campaign issue.

Implementation of the ambitious agreements with the FARC remains a work in progress. Colombia is also currently negotiating another peace process, with the National Liberation Army guerrilla group.

The next president must decide whether to keep to this path or take a different route.