Right-wing candidate Abelardo de la Espriella has won Colombia’s presidential election in a closely contested runoff, according to initial vote counts.
Backed by US President Donald Trump, the political outsider has pledged a hardline crackdown on armed groups and drug trafficking.
With more than 99% of votes counted, de la Espriella secured 49.7% of the vote, narrowly ahead of left-wing candidate Iván Cepeda, who received 48.7%, according to preliminary results.
The razor-thin margin has triggered political tension, with Cepeda refusing to concede, saying the results are “not yet official or binding” until final verification is completed.
“A new era begins,” says De la Espriella
Following the announcement, de la Espriella declared victory before thousands of supporters in Barranquilla.
He said the result marked:
“The beginning of a new stage for our country… built on the free and democratic will of millions of citizens.”
He also promised to govern for all Colombians, including those who did not vote for him, while pledging loyalty to the country’s 1991 Constitution.
Opposition candidate Iván Cepeda has called for caution, saying the preliminary count does not represent an official outcome.
He stated that only after a full official canvass and verification process would the results be recognized.
The narrow margin has deepened concerns over political polarization in Colombia.
Celebrations and Protests Across Colombia
In Barranquilla, supporters of de la Espriella celebrated with:
- Colombian flags and national football jerseys
- Fireworks and music performances
- Slogans such as “Petro out!” and “Stand firm for the homeland”
- Some supporters wearing hats resembling Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan, adapted as “Make Colombia Great Again”
Meanwhile, Cepeda supporters voiced concern over the outcome, warning of rising political tension.
A student activist said there was a “palpable sense of unease,” while another supporter noted the country remained divided but peaceful overall.
Despite mostly peaceful celebrations, clashes were reported in Cali, Colombia’s third-largest city.
Protesters reportedly burned US flags, while police used tear gas to disperse crowds opposing de la Espriella’s victory.
Authorities are monitoring the situation amid fears of further unrest.
Trump’s reaction
US President Donald Trump reacted to the result on Truth Social, writing:
“He Won, BIG!”
De la Espriella has been strongly endorsed by Trump, who praised his commitment to:
- Tackling crime
- Fighting drug trafficking
- Strengthening law and order
Other regional leaders, including Argentina’s Javier Milei and Chile’s José Antonio Kast, also welcomed the result, calling it a shift toward “security and economic freedom.”
Who os Abelardo de la Espriella?
De la Espriella is a lawyer and businessman with no prior political experience.
He previously represented controversial clients, including figures linked to corruption and fraud cases, though he has defended his role as part of legal practice.
He has drawn comparisons to El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele due to his strong security rhetoric and populist style.
