Colombian opposition Pacto Histórico to boycott presidential inauguration

The political bloc Pacto Histórico, together with affiliated Afro‑descendant and indigenous representatives, issued a formal statement announcing they will not attend the full Congress session scheduled for 7 August 2026 to mark the presidential inauguration. The group framed the decision as an exercise of constitutional opposition rights, civil disobedience and a peaceful protest against what they consider actions that undermine the 1991 Constitution and the balance of powers.

The bloc also rejected recent restrictions imposed by the Senate and Chamber leadership, calling them arbitrary and demanding that the inauguration ceremony be held in the main congressional building without limitations. They warned they will pursue all constitutional, legal and judicial avenues if the restrictions persist, while emphasizing a commitment to non‑violent, democratic participation. Police recommendations limited congressional staff to a minimum due to potential protests in the capital.