Colombia sets 2027 regional election calendar amid violence concerns

The National Civil Registry of Colombia has officially established the electoral calendar for the 2027 regional elections. Scheduled for October 31, 2027, the elections will determine the successors for governors, mayors, deputies, councilors, and local administrative board members for the 2028–2031 term.

National Registrar Hernán Penagos Giraldo warned that political polarization, disinformation, and the influence of illegal armed groups pose significant risks of violence during the process. Penagos noted that regional areas often face higher levels of instability, citing previous elections where approximately 91 violent incidents occurred, including the burning of electoral materials and attacks on officials.

The electoral roadmap includes several key milestones. The registration of enrollment committees for candidates supported by citizen movements or blank vote committees will begin on October 31, 2026. Additionally, the process for citizens to update their identification cards due to changes in residence began on October 28, 2026, and will remain open until August 31, 2027.