Colombian Mayor Defies Death Threats, Returns to Town

Mayor Edilberto Molina of Cartagena del Chairá, Colombia, has been facing death threats from drug-trafficking guerrillas due to his refusal to pay them off. He now manages the town remotely and visits sporadically under heavy security. Molina's case is not unique, as a dozen mayors in Colombia have been forced to flee their municipalities due to threats from criminal gangs. Concerns are rising ahead of regional elections, with a high risk of criminal groups interfering in the voting process. These groups demand money from candidates and intimidate residents to support their preferred candidates. The situation poses a significant challenge to Colombia's democracy and hampers public works and development in affected towns.