Samuel Moreno got elected mayor of Bogotá in 2007 on a smile and a promise to improve the city's transit system. Today, most bogotanos appear to regret their decision, as fear of crime has increased and the Transmilenio expansion strangles the city's traffic and its progress lags amidst accusations of corruption and mismanagement.
Unfortunately for Colombian politics, Mayor Moreno's slumping fortunes may sink his party with him. Once upon a time, Colombia had two dominant political parties, the Liberals and Conservatives, who traded power back and forth in a semi-authoritarian system. Today, they are only two amongst many parties in a mostly conservative political landscape. So, the left-wing Polo Democratico has served as an important counterweight to the conservative-dominated presidency. If the Polo self destructs amidst accusations between the Polo's leaders it will mean a real loss for Colombia's democracy.
By Mike Ceaser of Bogota Bike Tours
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