Uber Colombia Offers Free Rides to the Ballot for Historic Peace Vote

Colombians are voting today to ratify — or reject — the peace accord that the government reached with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) to end a half-century of war. It is a simple “Yes” or “No” plebiscite, and stakeholders on both sides want a high turnout so that, whether the deal is approved or struck down, the decision reflects the true mandate of the nation.

Uber is trying to do its part. From 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on October 2, it is offering free round-trip rides to polling stations throughout the country.

For some, the ride won’t be entirely free. While fares may differ in the 17 cities in Colombia where Uber operates, the company is only picking up the tab on the first 15,000 pesos of the trip. Though that is only around $5 USD, it will cover a complete trip for many. Others will be charged for the difference, which customers with already-established accounts can pay through their linked bank and credit cards or anybody can pay in cash.

To redeem the ride, users just need to enter “QUETALSI” in the promotion code section on the Uber app when requesting their driver.

“We know that October 2 will be a definitive day in the future of Colombia,” said the company on its website. “And we want to contribute to democracy by facilitating the movement of Colombians who decide to go to the polls on this day.”

Photo: Alexander Torrenegra, a U.S. resident from New Jersey, takes his first Uber ride in Bogotá, Colombia. (Credit: Alexander Torrenegra)