Colombia’s presidential runoff election on Sunday resulted in a narrow lead for conservative lawyer and businessman Abelardo de la Espriella, a political newcomer backed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. With nearly all votes tallied, de la Espriella held approximately 49.7% of the vote compared to 48.7% for his left-wing opponent, Senator Iván Cepeda, an ally of outgoing President Gustavo Petro. Official election authorities have not yet formally declared a winner.
The outcome signals a potential shift toward right-wing policies in Colombia, reversing several progressive initiatives from Petro’s administration. De la Espriella, nicknamed “The Tiger,” has vowed to take a tough stance on crime, signaling an end to Petro’s peace negotiations with illegal armed groups and pledging to prioritize security through stringent measures against drug trafficking and guerrilla activity. Speaking to supporters behind bulletproof glass in Barranquilla, de la Espriella declared, “We are beginning a new era,” and warned opponents that their time was over.
De la Espriella’s victory has drawn swift praise from Trump, who congratulated the candidate, saying, “He won, BIG!” The result also prompted endorsements from right-leaning leaders across the Americas. Holding dual Colombian and U.S. citizenship and identifying as a Republican, de la Espriella’s win is viewed by supporters as a hopeful turning point amid widespread concerns over violence and instability. Colombia experienced nearly 14,800 homicides last year, the highest since 2015, and the campaign was marred by attacks, including the killing of conservative presidential hopeful Miguel Uribe.
However, the close result has deepened societal divisions and sparked significant unrest. Protests erupted in major cities such as Cali and Bogotá shortly after the vote count was announced. Demonstrators in Cali clashed with riot police, burning American flags and hurling objects, while similar scenes unfolded in the capital. Some protestors voiced frustration with prolonged right-wing governance, accusing it of perpetuating inequality and benefiting the wealthy elite.
Iván Cepeda and the progressive camp have questioned the legitimacy of the vote count, describing it as “unofficial and non-binding” and challenging results from tens of thousands of polling stations. Petro’s government also indicated intentions to contest the outcome, although historically no Colombian presidential election has been overturned through recounts. Cepeda urged calm and called for an end to political intimidation amid fears of escalating tension and potential violence.
The winner of the election is set to assume office on August 7 for a four-year term, inheriting a country grappling with persistent violence and polarization. As Colombia stands at a crossroads, the incoming administration’s approach to security, peace negotiations, and social reforms will shape the nation’s trajectory in the coming years.