The Colombian National Electoral Council (CNE) said Thursday that negative propaganda is permitted in political campaigns.
The President of the CNE, Joaquin Jose Vives, said that negative advertizing would be allowed on the grounds of freedom of expression.
Negative ads are permitted to highlight weaknesses in other campaigns; however, libel and slander are not condoned.
He also recalled the Constitutional Court ruling that negative campaigning “cannot affect the reputations of the candidates.”
Vives went on to say that anyone who crosses the line is subject to investigation and fines, and that the Electoral Tribunals are responsible for withdrawing ads when they violate the law.