The Liberal Party announced that it had joined the congressional coalition of Colombia’s President Abelardo de la Espriella.
The party, which also supported De la Espriella’s presidential bid, said that it would join the coalition after “extensive deliberation and arduous debate among representatives, senators, and leadership” of Colombia’s oldest political party.
It is worth noting that the discussions between representatives and senators over the past several weeks have revealed disagreements among some members of our caucuses with the current administration, but they also acknowledge President Espriella’s ability to work toward stimulating economic growth, building a talent pool to provide real opportunities for Colombians, and restoring security and respect for institutions.
Liberal Party
The liberals’ decision gives the government broad support in Congress and marginalizes the opposition led by the leftist Historic Pact Party.
In the senate, De la Espriella’s right-wing coalition can count on the support of 63 of 103 lawmakers. In the House of Representatives, the coalition consists of 123 of 183 lawmakers.
The Historic Pact, which won the elections and became the biggest party in Congress, was abandoned by the left-liberal Green Alliance party and can count of the support of 28 senators and 44 representatives.
The opposition party has been able to make temporary anti-government alliances with, for example, the far-right Democratic Center party of former President Alvaro Uribe.
