In a decisive early count, former lawyer and businessman Abelardo de la Espriella, supported by ex‑U.S. president Donald Trump, edged out left‑wing contender Iván Cepeda in Colombia’s presidential runoff. He held 49.7% of the vote compared with Cepeda’s 48.7%, with 99 % of the ballots counted.
Celebrations erupted in Barranquilla, where supporters in yellow football jerseys shouted slogans echoing Trump’s “Make America Great Again”. At the same time, backup crowds expressed worry about the narrow margin and potential unrest.
De la Espriella has pledged a hard‑line security policy—including abandoning negotiations with armed groups, cracking down on drug cartels, establishing mega‑prisons and strengthening the justice system—while also promising to protect Colombia’s 1991 constitution.
President Gustavo Petro and allies have signaled they may challenge the results, citing irregularities and demanding a review of the voting software, while other leaders such as Argentina’s Milei and Chile’s Kast have applauded the shift toward tougher law‑and‑order measures.
The election marks a stark rightward shift in Latin America, reflecting growing concerns about security and the expansion of conflict‑carrying militias and drug cartels. The new administration’s close ties with the United States and its approach to the ongoing internal conflict will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers.
