Key moments
In a significant development for Colombia, Paloma Valencia has emerged victorious in the center-right consultation of the presidential primaries held on March 9, 2026. Alongside her, Claudia López claimed the centrist contest, while Roy Barreras took the lead in the leftist primary. This fragmented outcome highlights the challenges ahead for the next president, who will need to build alliances to govern effectively.
As the political scene evolves, the country grapples with the unsettling disappearance of Eric Fernando Gutierrez Molina, a 32-year-old American Airlines flight attendant. Molina was last seen early Sunday morning in the La America neighborhood of Medellín, where he was scheduled to return to the United States on a flight to Miami. His absence has raised concerns, and local authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding his disappearance.
The political backdrop is further complicated by ongoing investigations into President Gustavo Petro, who has been designated a ‘priority target’ by the DEA amid allegations of ties to drug traffickers. Petro has consistently denied these claims, asserting that he never accepted funds from drug traffickers during his campaign. However, the shadow of his son, Nicolás Petro, who was charged in 2023 for soliciting illegal campaign contributions from a convicted drug trafficker, looms large over his administration.
Colombia, known as the world’s largest supplier of cocaine, has a long history of political turmoil intertwined with drug trafficking. The recent primary elections reflect a shifting political landscape, with voters expressing their preferences across a spectrum of ideologies. The results indicate a desire for change, but the path forward remains uncertain as the new president will need to navigate a fragmented Congress.
American Airlines has expressed its concern regarding Molina’s disappearance, stating, “We are actively engaged with local law enforcement officials in their investigation and doing all we can to support our team member’s family during this time.” Meanwhile, local authorities have noted that the circumstances of his disappearance are raising red flags, as highlighted by Arturo Fontes, who mentioned, “These cases are normal. In this case, he has not shown up and that’s what’s giving some red flags.” Details remain unconfirmed.
In the midst of these developments, Colombia’s Embassy in Washington has responded to the allegations against President Petro, asserting that “the reported insinuations have no legal or factual basis.” Petro himself has countered the accusations, suggesting that U.S. legal proceedings would ultimately dismantle claims made by the Colombian far right.
As Colombia prepares for the upcoming presidential elections, the political atmosphere is charged with uncertainty and anticipation. The results of the primaries have set the stage for a competitive race, with each candidate vying for support amid a backdrop of serious allegations and a missing person case that has captured the nation’s attention.
With the political landscape shifting and the investigation into Molina’s disappearance ongoing, Colombia stands at a crossroads. The coming months will be crucial as the country navigates these challenges and seeks to forge a path toward stability and progress.
