The political landscape in Colombia is poised for significant change as Alfredo Saade , the former head of the Colombian Presidency, has announced his intention to run for president in May 2026 . His aim is to facilitate the re-election of the current leader, Gustavo Petro , despite constitutional barriers preventing such a move since 2015. In a candid revelation shared via his social media account on platform X, Saade communicated his commitment to engage with the public and strive for election as a presidential candidate.
“I will fight on the street as I know how to achieve even more the favor of the people and be elected in October as a candidate for the Presidency,” he stated, emphasizing his goal of reestablishing the political groundwork necessary for Petro’s return to power. Saade elaborated on his plans, noting that his mission remains unchanged: he seeks to pave the way for a constituent Colombian president who will facilitate Petro’s re-election.
To attain this ambitious goal, Saade must navigate through an internal consultation scheduled for October 26 by the Historical Pact , the political coalition he represents. In this competitive landscape, he will contend against prominent candidates including Senators Iván Cepeda , María José Pizarro , Gloria Flórez , and former ministers such as Carolina Cork , Susana Muhamad , and Gloria Ramírez . The results of this internal consultation will be crucial for setting the stage for the 2026 presidential elections.
During his announcement, Saade took the opportunity to advocate for fundamental reforms within Colombia’s political structure. He expressed a strong belief that “the media must be regulated to prevent misinformation,” underscoring his perspective on the importance of accurate and responsible journalism in shaping public opinion.
In addition, Saade has called for the complete dissolution of the Prosecutor’s Office , asserting that it has fallen short of its intended purpose and has instead become a tool for political manipulation . He pledged to stand as an ally to entrepreneurs but made it clear that he does not see them as subservient to political entities. “The popular power will be the one who directs me,” he declared, resonating with the sentiment of grassroots engagement and civic empowerment.
Another of Saade’s primary objectives is to confront corruption , which he declared is at the core of Colombia’s political and social challenges. He stated that “state corruption will come to an end,” vowing to dismantle the associations between drug trafficking and corrupt political factions. This bold proclamation is likely to resonate with many Colombians who are disillusioned by persistent issues of corruption affecting their daily lives and the larger political environment.
However, Saade’s past has not been free from controversy. He faced suspension in mid-August for three months due to an ongoing investigation by the Prosecutor’s Office regarding alleged irregularities in the implementation of a new passport issuance system. This development raised questions about his suitability to lead, especially as he attempts to position himself as a reformer committed to fighting corruption and increasing transparency.
As Colombia gears up for a new election cycle, the political discourse remains vibrant and multifaceted. Alfredo Saade’s intentions to push for significant reforms, engage the grassroots public, and potentially pave the way for Petro’s re-election could set a definitive tone for the upcoming elections. The outcome of the Historical Pact consultation and subsequent public response will be determining factors in shaping the future political environment of Colombia.
The ongoing discussions surrounding accountability, media regulation, and the fight against corruption will likely dominate the election narrative. As Alfredo Saade embarks on this ambitious journey, his ability to connect with the electorate and navigate the complexities of Colombian politics will be crucial for his success. The next few months will be pivotal not only for Saade but also for all Colombians who are eager for meaningful change and a brighter future.