After a serious, transparent, and deeply democratic process, the Democratic Center announces that Paloma Valencia has been selected as its candidate for the Presidency of the Republic, following a rigorous exercise of polling and party participation.

The process began in October with the free and responsible nomination of María Fernanda Cabal, Paloma Valencia, Paola Holguín, Andrés Guerra, and Miguel Uribe, and was carried out openly before the public through 24 programmatic forums, both in-person and virtual, in which the country’s main challenges were debated. Following the painful assassination of Miguel Uribe Turbay, the meetings continued virtually, with massive participation nearing 10,000 people per forum.

With the unanimous agreement of the pre-candidates, the final decision was made using two technical and rigorous methodologies. The first was conducted by the Chilean firm CADEM, which carried out a national quantitative study with a sample of 2,109 interviews, distributed by regions throughout the country, using self-administered web-based interviews with a questionnaire previously agreed upon by the parties. This study produced a 2.5% margin of error and a 95% confidence level.

The second methodology began on December 1 with the Chilean firm Panel Ciudadano, which surveyed 5,000 active members of the Democratic Center, including members of municipal and departmental committees, the national leadership, youth councilors, local officials, city council members, deputies, representatives, and senators. From this participatory, modern, and reliable exercise—supported by state-of-the-art technology—2,255 valid votes were received, with a 1.45% margin of error.

The Democratic Center reiterates that the sacrifice of Miguel Uribe Turbay and his family will not be in vain, and that his cause for a safer, freer, and more prosperous country will continue to be an unwavering banner of the party.

Paloma Valencia, a senator since 2014, is one of the strongest voices of opposition to the government of Gustavo Petro and has been highlighted in multiple surveys as one of the best members of Congress in the country. She serves on the First Committee of the Senate and has led important debates and political oversight actions in defense of institutions, security, and democracy.

The Democratic Center congratulates its candidate and thanks María Fernanda Cabal, Paola Holguín, Andrés Guerra, and Dr. Miguel Uribe Londoño for their character, dedication, and commitment to Colombia.

Because Colombia deserves a better path.

Because hope does not surrender.

DEMOCRATIC CENTER

DECEMBER 15, 2025