Ivan Cepeda's unexpected rise as a frontrunner in Colombia's presidential election

An unlikely leader

Ivan Cepeda, a 63-year-old senator known for his soft-spoken and measured rhetoric, is not a typical presidential candidate. Less than a year ago, he admitted that the presidency was not his calling. However, since announcing his candidacy last August, Cepeda has emerged as the new face of Colombia's increasingly powerful left wing.

Personal tragedy and political fight

Cepeda's father, Senator Manuel Cepeda, was assassinated in 1995, a turning point in his life. He spent decades seeking his father's killers and advocating for conflict victims. Elected to Congress in 2010, on his first day he arrived with a bucket and mop, promising to clean up a legislature stained by corruption.

Cepeda repeatedly confronted former President Alvaro Uribe, accusing him of collusion with paramilitary groups and drug cartels. A legal battle ended with Uribe convicted of bribery and witness tampering in July 2025, though the ruling was later overturned. Still, the case boosted Cepeda's political standing, making him a hero to the left.

Election battle and challenges

In Sunday's run-off, Cepeda faces far-right lawyer Abelardo de la Espriella, backed by US President Donald Trump. De la Espriella promises a hardline approach to crime and conflict, while Cepeda focuses on strengthening social programs and advancing agrarian reform to reduce inequality.

Cepeda also promises continuity with outgoing President Gustavo Petro's policies but acknowledges the need for deeper change. He has criticized Petro's "Total Peace" plan, which failed to achieve a lasting peace deal with any major armed group.

Since the first round, Cepeda has tried to moderate his platform and distance himself from Petro to court centrist and undecided voters, but has gained few endorsements from centrist politicians. Analysts say it will be difficult for Cepeda to broaden his support, as centrists remain wary of joining his campaign.