Open debate among presidential candidates following suspension of minimum wage increase

Portafolio Journalist 02.13.2026 12:14 Updated: 02.13.2026 12:14

Open debate among presidential candidates following suspension of minimum wage increase

TL;DR

  • The Council of State provisionally suspended a 23% minimum wage increase for 2026.
  • The suspension was a response to multiple requests and demands against the government's decree.
  • The increase was established after no agreement was reached between employers and workers in the Salary and Labor Policies Concertation Commission.
  • Presidential candidates expressed varied opinions on the decision.
  • Paloma Valencia and Juan Carlos Pinzón supported the suspension, advocating for technically viable and sustainable economic decisions.
  • Vicky Dávila called for fulfilling promises to workers while protecting companies, blaming the government for the situation.
  • Juan Daniel Oviedo respected the decision, emphasizing the need for constitutional and economically responsible minimum wage adjustments.
  • Iván Cepeda opposed the suspension, labeling it arbitrary and regressive, and predicting social unrest.
  • Juan Fernando Cristo called the measure incomprehensible and contrary to the Social Rule of Law.
  • Roy Barreras invited support for the President against what he termed an attack on Colombian workers.