Bogota, Colombia—Abelardo de la Espriella, a right-wing populist candidate, has emerged as the winner of Colombia’s presidential election based on the preliminary ‘quick count’ shared by electoral authorities. With more than 99% of the votes counted, de la Espriella is ahead with 49.7%, while his left-wing opponent, Iván Cepeda, has garnered 48.7%. Unmarked ballots constitute the remainder of the votes.
The tight margin means that official certification of the results is pending until a slower, manual count is completed in the coming days. Historically, Colombia’s quick counts align closely with certified results.
De la Espriella reacted to the preliminary result by posting on social media. He stated, ‘Today begins a new stage for our country, one that is based on the free and democratic will of millions who chose to believe in a safe, prosperous Colombia full of opportunities.’
On the other hand, Cepeda, aligned with outgoing President Gustavo Petro, acknowledged the quick count but announced challenges to results from approximately 33,000 ballot boxes. President Petro also raised concerns about irregularities and emphasized that neither candidate should be declared winner until the count is ratified.
Security emerged as the principal concern among voters during the election. Colombia’s long-standing armed conflict has worsened in recent years. Armed groups and cartels have increased control over drug trafficking and illegal mining, causing significant displacement and insecurity.
De la Espriella plans to initiate a major military campaign against guerrilla groups upon taking office. He stated his intention to ‘bomb all camps holding narco-terrorists.’ Additionally, he aims to strengthen efforts against drug-smuggling aircraft and boats, and construct ten ‘mega prisons.’
He also wants to end the ban on fracking and lift Petro’s moratorium on new hydrocarbon and mining contracts.
The 47-year-old, known for his work as a criminal defense lawyer, has represented controversial clients like the founder of a pyramid scheme and Alex Saab, linked to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, now extradited to the U.S. for money laundering.
De la Espriella’s media persona includes glossy videos where he performs songs like ‘My Way’ and ‘Volare’ in Spanish. Often referred to as ‘the devil’s advocate,’ he has built a legal and media empire around his image. As a businessman and influencer, he owns luxury cars such as a Rolls Royce, travels by private jet, and has launched a fashion brand selling high-end accessories.
He is attempting to improve relations with Washington, strained under Petro. This month, he received support from President Trump. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated him, stating, ‘Colombia’s best days are ahead.’
This result reflects a general rightward shift in Latin America. Far-right and center-right governments now govern nations including Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, and Paraguay. Peru may also follow, with its election results pending.