Abelardo de la Espriella, a lawyer without any prior political office, narrowly won Colombia’s presidential runoff, capturing 49.66% of the vote. His opponent, left-wing Senator Ivan Cepeda, received 48.70%. De la Espriella’s victory marks a shift to the right, potentially improving ties with the United States and reinforcing regional right-wing security policies.
Celebrating behind bulletproof glass in Barranquilla, De la Espriella declared, “For those who have sown violence, terror, drug trafficking, and corruption all these years, their time is up!” His campaign focused on combating drug-running guerrilla groups, garnering support from right-wing leaders, including President Trump, who stated, “He Won, BIG!”
Protests erupted across Colombia in response. In major cities like Cali and Bogotá, demonstrators clashed with police, burning American flags and creating barricades. These protests highlight the challenges De la Espriella faces in uniting a divided nation.
Despite the unrest, many of De la Espriella’s supporters took to the streets to celebrate, donning the national football jersey and expressing optimism for improved security and governance.
“I’m very happy,” said Daniela Oliveros, a supporter in Barranquilla. “I believe a lot in the country, I believe a lot in freedom.”
De la Espriella pledged to govern democratically and respect all political views, promising a government inclusive of those who opposed him. His presidency might challenge Colombia’s decade-old peace process, as he indicated plans to end peace talks with dissident groups.
Despite progress since a peace accord with FARC rebels, Colombia still faces issues with cartels and economic inequality. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism about future cooperation, stating, “Colombia’s best days are ahead.”
Cepeda did not concede immediately, awaiting full vote verification. Over 247,000 votes separated the candidates, out of more than 26 million cast. A recount is unlikely to change the outcome, based on historical patterns in Colombia.
De la Espriella cautioned Cepeda against inciting violence, threatening, “The Tiger can still bite you harder than he has bitten you at the ballot box.”