8-2010 There is no doubt that Colombia is experiencing a process of selecting the next president very interesting. Held for the first round of six candidates supremely well qualified and structured, which has allowed a discussion of programs and ideas that enrich and dignify the meeting democratic politics in Colombia.
is a pity, however, polls and media pressure that we are subjected to the electorate have been grouped around the two leading candidates in the polls, less options to other equally prepared and trained for the race.
Interestingly, the overlap in the programs submitted by the applicants. Perhaps the only one apart from the rest is the candidate of the Democratic Pole, which could be branded as ideologically center-left. Others without exception is center right. Clear that among the proposals there is a difference of nuance and priorities. Programs of the center-right candidate could be secured, without much risk of error that are good and have been structured by excellent scholars of national reality. I think that any of these programs would be equally successful in the hands of the right leader for today's Colombia.
For some the priority is the law, for other education or health, safety or other employment. But all agree that there are some basic elements that streamline and consolidate to move to Colombia. Security, combating corruption, strengthening of justice, education, health and economic growth.
This leads me to conclude that the current dispute to the presidency of Colombia is more personality than programs. Character is more than parties. It is more than mood, leadership and charisma, selling ideas or plans of government.
As stated by President Uribe the country's endemic violence has been. Since the 40's of last century, the country has only lived a few years in peace, for the home front. We had political violence, then the guerrilla, the paramilitary, drug trafficking and a lot of crime. So the success of the theory and practice of President Uribe, represented in democratic security, which in essence is the use of authority and public force to ensure public safety within the framework of democratic and constitutional norms.
What we have advanced security can not be lost. And in a way ALL candidates support the security policy with differences of emphasis.
The question is then whether candidates have the decision, the character and spirit to continue the democratic security successfully.
If the race was more balanced among the six candidates would be very interesting to analyze them against the profile of the leader the country needs. But unfortunately at this point and according to surveys, the options are reduced to the candidate of the U and the Green Party candidate. Mockus
candidate representing academia, intelligence, the change in political practice as an independent and traditional politics without meaningful representation in Congress. That has encouraged many young and not so young to join the campaign, thanks also to the traditional political scandals. Santos
candidate clearly represents the current government and is the heir of President Uribe. Has the backing of party U, and has good representation in Congress. He has extensive experience in the management of the state. Advocates of all Coast success of democratic security are definitely at his side. Colombia
a leader today needs to forward security and authority. Have the talent and determination to combat FARC and terrorism. That has the capacity to confront the neighbors diplomatically and even with arms if circumstances warrant. Not frightened by the neighbor who protects, supports and arms the guerrillas of the FARC. And also to have the political ability to work hand in Congress reforms the country is crying out, in the areas of Justice, health, education etc.
Which of these two candidates has the leadership that Colombia needs today? In
I think Professor Mockus conveys candor and transparency, but does not transmit security. It does not reflect the mood to be Commander of the Army of Colombia and keep the pressure on the insurgency. Although it has a strong personality and preparation, does not appear more attractive as the leader of the Green Party. Peñalosa himself voting in the consultation of the parties. His popularity soared when achieving the accession of Fajardo. There appears to be the strongest leader of the 'Tenors. " I guess the eventual presidency of Mockus, like a "civilian junta" of 4 members and not of a strong President. The Colombia of today is not prepared for that kind of leadership.
Candidate Santos passed continuity, security and authority to manage the armed forces and represents the policies of President Uribe. It is not charismatic, but his experience in the management of state issues only guarantee of peace. Know what you can promise and what it can to comply and not using the appeal of populism to win voters. Know what were the strengths and weaknesses of the current government and has better than to others to continue the good and correct what is wrong. And then there is strong support in Congress, making it easier governance.
In my opinion, the two options available, Santos is the candidate who best represents the leader of Colombia needs today. Jorge
Pineda H
Medellín, May 11 to 10
