Presidental poll divides Colombians
Colombian voters give their views on the forthcoming presidential election.
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| Many Colombians want Juan Manuel Santos as president to continue the current government’s policies, while others are looking for change by backing Antanas Mockus of the Green Party [AFP] |
Colombia is going to the polls on Sunday to elect a new president.
Alvaro Uribe, the incumbent, was prevented from changing the constitution to run for a third term. However, Juan Manuel Santos, of Uribe’s party and his former defence minister, is running and viewed as the candidate that will continue his former boss’ policies.
However, Santos has lost ground in the polls, now being virtually level with Antanas Mockus, of the Green Party.
Mockus is predicted to win a second round run off against Santos.
Unemployment, healthcare and poverty are the most important issues for voters. Al Jazeera spoke to some of them.
| Jaime |
Shoe shiner is unhappy with recent rule.
| Carlos Arturo Villa |
Thinks Santos is the best candidate to succeed Uribe.
| Jaqueline Gomez |
Looking towards Neomi Sanin, the Liberal Party candidate.
| Natalia |
Wants to vote for change.
| Olga |
Thinks a continuation of Uribe’s policies, which led to increased security, would be good.
| Jorge Enrique Ojeda |
Sees most of the candidates as corrupt, except for Gustavo Petro of the Polo Democratico Alternativo (Alternative Democratic Pole) party.
| Luna Herrera |
Unconfident about politicians’ sincerity.
| Juan Camilo Diaz |
Wants to be part of a new Colombia.