In brief
In Colombia’s run‑off, Abelardo de la Espriella edges closer to 50% of the vote, narrowly out‑finishing left‑wing Iván Cepeda. Endorsed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, the ‘Tiger’ pledges a military assault on armed groups, drug cartels and corruption, promising the first strict security‑first government in Colombia in decades. Celebrations erupted on the streets of Barranquilla, but protests and clashes in Cali hint at deep divisions. The result signals a sharp pivot to the right across Latin America amid rising concerns over crime and security.
Meet 'El Tigre': Abelardo de la Espriella, a lawyer and businessman with no previous political role, has just been elected president of Colombia in a razor‑thin runoff against Iván Cepeda.
Trump‑strengthened: The former U.S. president personally endorsed de la Espriella, promising to “stop illegal immigration, crack down on crime and drugs, and restore law and order.” The support was brightened by supporters wearing yellow football jerseys and waving Colombian flags.
Security crackdown plan: Unlike the current administration, which favoured negotiation with guerrilla groups, de la Espriella vows to smash armed factions, demolish cartels, rebuild mega prisons in the jungle and cut down the state’s role in the health system.
What it means for Colombia: The elimination of talks with illegal groups could push the country back into a hard‑line militaristic era, while critics warn the vote is a shallow “court‑room” outcome that might trigger unrest.
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