Shakira claims she "doesn't support any candidate" running for Colombian president—even those whose campaigns were bolstered by the use of her image. Recently, fan accounts and other social media users shared a promotional image depicting the artist alongside candidates Iván Cepeda and Aída Quilcué.
«"The images being circulated of me endorsing presidential candidates are fake," the singer said in a statement, according to Billboard . "I do not endorse any candidate and have not given permission for my image to be used in any election campaign.".
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These photos are yet another attempt to link Shakira, in particular, to Cepeda. Earlier this year, unsubstantiated reports surfaced that the singer and the candidate are distant relatives. Shakira has made no public statements that could influence the votes of her Colombian fans. "My commitment is to Colombia, its democracy, and the right of every Colombian to free choice," she said. "I want these elections to be transparent and peaceful for all Colombians.".
Shakira has spoken out repeatedly in the past about the injustices perpetrated by demoralized governments. Last year, she said that being an immigrant in America under the Trump administration meant "living in constant fear." "Now, more than ever, we must stand united," she said then. "Now, more than ever, we must raise our voices and make it clear that a country can change its immigration policies, but all people must always be treated with humanity.".
Shakira moved to the United States from Colombia when she was just 19. She later settled in Barcelona, and then, after the end of her 11-year relationship with Spanish footballer Gerard Piqué, settled in Miami.
Shakira performed four sold-out concerts in Colombia in February as part of her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran world tour, which continues this weekend in Miami Gardens.
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