Petro to lead Pacto Histórico opposition after leaving presidency

President Gustavo Petro has accepted the leadership of his party, the Pacto Histórico, once his term ends on August 7, 2026, positioning himself as a key opposition figure against the incoming government of Abelardo de la Espriella. The decision, announced on X, follows a proposal by Senator Iván Cepeda during an event in Tunja Source: infobae, Portafolio. Petro will assume the presidency of the Pacto Histórico after taking a vacation, which he said he deserves after four years without rest Source: elnacionalve.

Opposition strategy

Cepeda, who will lead the party in Congress, has called for a strategy of "civil disobedience" against the new government, arguing that De la Espriella lacks legitimacy due to his dual citizenship Source: elcolombiano. The Pacto Histórico officially declared it will exercise a "firm, responsible" opposition, with binding votes and sanctions for dissidents Source: portafolioco. However, sources note a dual discourse: while Cepeda promotes civil disobedience, Petro continues to allege electoral fraud Source: lasillavacia.

Senate presidency dispute

The party's 26 senators are key in the election for Senate president, with candidates Alfredo Deluque (supported by De la Espriella) and Honorio Henríquez (Centro Democrático). Petro has urged his bancada to vote publicly and not support anyone who represents a coalition that "wants to criminalize politics" Source: lasillavacia. Incoming Interior Minister Rodrigo Lara responded that the opposition will have full guarantees, but criticized Petro's interference Source: infobae. The election, slated for July 21, will test the party's unity.