Colombia ELN Confirms 4-Day Election Ceasefire (Midnight May 30 – June 2); Orders Combatants to Halt Offensive Operations; FARC Dissidents and Clan del Golfo Also Pledge Non-Interference

May 28, 2026 — The ELN formally confirmed a 4-day unilateral ceasefire running from midnight May 30 to midnight June 2, covering Colombia's May 31 first-round presidential election and the immediate post-voting period. The ELN stated it 'respects the free right to vote' and ordered combatants across all fronts to halt offensive operations during the window. FARC dissidents (Estado Mayor Central/Mordisco faction) and the Clan del Golfo (AGC) also pledged non-interference during the voting period. The ceasefire is an election-period gesture only — peace negotiations with the Petro government have been effectively suspended since early 2025 following the January Catatumbo massacre. The ELN's declaration does not constitute a resumption of formal peace talks; it is a tactical posture to avoid electoral violence, not a peace breakthrough. With the election now 3 days away, the CNC poll (May 16-22) shows a near-tie between Iván Cepeda (33.4%) and Abelardo De la Espriella (30.9%) within the margin of error, while Invamer still shows a wider Cepeda lead (44.6% vs 31.6%). A runoff on June 21 remains virtually certain. The fundamental question — whether the next president will resume ELN peace talks or terminate all negotiations — remains unresolved and defines the election's historical significance.