Rodolfo Hernández, Colombian presidential candidate, dies from cancer

Rodolfo Hernández, a former mayor of Bucaramanga and civil engineer, passed away at the age of 79 due to colon cancer in a hospital near Bucaramanga. He gained national attention during the 2022 presidential election, where he unexpectedly advanced to the runoff against Gustavo Petro, securing 28% of the vote in the first round. His campaign was notable for its low-cost, self-financed approach and reliance on social media, appealing to conservative voters disillusioned with traditional politics. Despite his initial success, Hernández's political influence waned after the election as he faced multiple legal challenges that damaged his reputation. In June, he was sentenced to five years in prison for corruption related to a sanitation contract awarded during his tenure as mayor. He maintained his innocence and planned to appeal the ruling, but due to his declining health, he was placed under house arrest. Hernández's campaign focused on anti-corruption and reducing public spending, contrasting sharply with Petro's leftist agenda advocating for increased government intervention to address social inequalities. His rise in politics was marked by a unique strategy that bypassed conventional political networks, which resonated with many voters. His death marks the end of a controversial chapter in Colombian politics, highlighting the challenges faced by candidates who disrupt the status quo. The impact of his campaign and subsequent legal troubles will likely continue to influence discussions around political reform and corruption in Colombia.