Coalition parties do well Colombian elections

Early results for congressional elections in Colombia show leads for both of the main parties in the current coalition.

Sunday’s vote passed by with little violence, unlike previous elections dominated by bombings, kidnappings and attacks.

President Alvaro Uribe’s party have over 24 per cent of the senate votes. While his main ally, the Conservative Party, polled 22.5 per cent.

Though Uribe can not run for a third term, this election is an important preview to the next presidential election in May. A strong showing by his party will be good news for Defence Minister, Juan Manuel Santos, who’s seen as Uribe’s heir.

Votes were cast for electing 102 senators and 166 Congress representatives.

The coalition is a delicate balance. Bolstered by success in these polls, some of the other parties are considering launching their own presidential candidates to take on Santos in May.

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