Colombia: Bars to close November 19 for Liberal Party vote

Event

Colombian officials have ordered all bars and liquor stores to close nationwide on Sunday, November 19, from 06:00 to 18:00 (local time) while members of the Liberal Party head to the polls to elect a new leader. The intraparty election is not expected to cause any notable disruptions and is likely to proceed peacefully.

Context

Known as the “dry law,” the regulation is put into place to ensure elections proceed smoothly and to encourage greater turnout. The ban was originally set to take effect from 18:00 on Saturday, November 18, until 06:00 on Monday, November 20, however business groups successfully launched a campaign to limit its scope to the day of the election.

Advice

Individuals in the area are advised to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.