Colombia between politics, sustainability, and culture: a summary of the most important news
Colombia is in a moment of great political division following the results of the first round of the presidential elections. The electoral map shows a country divided between the left, represented by the Pacto Histórico, and the right. A much-discussed fact was the result in Antioquia, where candidate Paloma Valencia suffered an unexpected defeat against figures like Abelardo de la Espriella, despite this region being traditionally close to her party.
In the field of justice, retired general Mario Montoya will testify again before the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) on June 1 and 2. Montoya must answer questions about the cases known as "false positives" in the department of Antioquia. This process is an essential part of the country's efforts to find the truth and provide justice for the victims of the armed conflict.
On the other hand, Colombia stands out today for its progress in environmental care. The Historic Center of Cartagena received an international certification for reducing its carbon footprint, an achievement led by 50 local hotels and restaurants. Likewise, in Floridablanca, Santander, a pioneering project has been launched in a shopping center that uses flies to transform organic waste into oil, flour, and fertilizer, preventing these wastes from ending up in the trash.
In the Caribbean region, science is also working to protect nature and the economy. Researchers from the University of Magdalena have successfully bred the "lisa" (mullet), a fish very important for the food and employment of fishermen, in captivity. This breakthrough is vital to save the species from the negative effects of overfishing and climate change.
In social news, authorities in Cali confirmed tragic news that has moved the city. The body found in a vacant lot south of the capital of Valle belongs to Jennifer Estrella Guevara, a woman who had been missing since May 27. The community and her family deeply mourn this outcome as investigations proceed.
In the world of art, the Claustro de San Agustín in Bogotá presents the exhibition “Exvotos de la Desobediencia” (Ex-votos of Disobedience). This show, which will be open until 2026, features works by the famous artist Débora Arango alongside other creators. The paintings and pieces explore difficult themes such as structural violence and social resistance in Colombia's history.
Finally, in the entertainment sector, singer Camilo announced that he will return to Bogotá to give a concert at the Movistar Arena on December 6. Lastly, for the residents of Cúcuta, caution is recommended this Sunday night, as the mayor's office will carry out several temporary road closures due to a sporting event that will pass through the city's main streets.