Meta governor denounces attempted kidnapping of mayor, armed pressure ahead of presidential vote

The governor of Colombia's Meta department, Rafaela Cortés Zambrano, has sounded an alarm over the escalating security situation, urging the national government to bolster institutional protection just hours before the presidential election runoff. The region faces a critical juncture, with concerns mounting over potential disruptions to the democratic process.

Cortés's urgent appeal follows a disturbing report of an alleged attempted kidnapping of the mayor of Mesetas, Camilo Pulgarín. The municipal leader has been unable to return to his town as investigations into the incident proceed. Governor Cortés emphasized that this event cannot be viewed in isolation, pointing to a pattern of escalating security incidents across various municipalities in Meta over recent months. These include the assassination of the former mayor of Cubarral approximately one month ago and reports of electoral coercion and pressure from illegal armed groups in rural areas.

The governor also voiced significant concern regarding alleged "carding" processes by illegal structures and ongoing territorial disputes between armed groups operating within Meta. These activities, she stated, create substantial risks for the civilian population and threaten the integrity of the upcoming democratic exercise. During the past week, Cortés visited several municipalities deemed critical for electoral security, holding security council meetings and engaging with local authorities, law enforcement, oversight bodies, and community leaders to assess the public order conditions firsthand. The situation underscores the volatile environment in which the election is taking place, highlighting the challenges faced in ensuring a safe and transparent process for all citizens.