Rafael Acevedo wins Tunja mayoral election after annulment of Krasnov's victory

Rafael Guillermo Acevedo Pedroza, of the Alianza Social Independiente (ASI), won the at-large mayoral election in Tunja on July 26, 2026, with approximately 24.7% of the vote. The election was called after the Council of State annulled the 2023 victory of Mikhail Krasnov due to ineligibility.

Background

The Council of State confirmed on March 5, 2026, that Krasnov was ineligible because he had signed a contract with a public entity within 12 months before his election, violating Colombian law. Eleven candidates contested the remainder of the 2024–2027 term.

Results and turnout

• Acevedo received about 10,500–10,700 votes, ahead of Yamir Oswaldo López Peña (21.3–21.4%) and Sandra Milena Estupiñán (around 17.8%) Source: La República; El Colombiano.
• Turnout was low at roughly 30–30.8%, with 142,847 eligible voters. News reports cited high abstention, above 69% Source: El Colombiano; Infobae.
• The election day was secured by over 800 police and military personnel, with biometric verification at three polling stations Source: La República.

Who is Rafael Acevedo?

Acevedo is an architect, former deputy of Boyacá, and ex-secretary of infrastructure. He previously ran for mayor in 2019, finishing fourth. His campaign focused on urban planning and heritage recovery Source: La República. He will govern for about 17 months.