Observers denounce vote-buying in Colombian elections

On Thursday, electoral observers reported systematic vote-buying in north Colombia, ahead of October local elections.

MOE Director Alejandra Barrios announced that 600 so-called “mochileros” operating in Barranquilla are paying between $15 and $20 for each vote.

Barrios added that the allegations have already been brought to the attention of the Attorney General’s Office and the police in order to neutralize the fraud before the October 30 elections.

Caracol Radio has also reported that in Cartagena, taxi drivers are being paid $20 apiece for their votes.

Vote-buying is considered common in Colombia and was problematic during last year’s national elections as well.

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