Ten years ago, Colombian former guerrillas, now known as FARC, transitioned from armed conflict to politics after signing a peace treaty with the government, which allowed them to participate in elections. However, as the upcoming legislative elections approach, these ex-combatants are struggling with the daunting task of garnering public support and navigating the political landscape. Luis Albán, a candidate hoping to maintain his congressional seat, exemplifies this difficulty as he appears disoriented and unprepared at a get-out-the-vote rally, revealing the harsh realities of political campaigning for those unaccustomed to democratic processes.

Albán, who spent four decades as a high-ranking member of FARC, embodies the profound transformations that ex-guerrillas must undergo to fit into a society that has largely moved on from the violence of war. While FARC's historic role as Colombia's most notorious guerrilla group has been recognized in peace agreements, the transition to a political party fraught with electoral challenges suggests a complex relationship with their former identity. As they compete against established political factions, the ex-combatants’ past as insurgents continues to cast a long shadow over their efforts to earn legitimacy and trust from the electorate.

This dilemma reflects a broader issue faced by many former insurgents globally, where transforming from armed struggle to political engagement often comes with steep struggles in terms of public perception. In Colombia, the ability of ex-guerrillas to adapt and thrive in this new role directly impacts their future and that of their communities, making the upcoming elections a significant juncture in evaluating the peace process's success and the lasting impact on the country's political fabric.