Far-right millionaire Abelardo de la Espriella has been elected president of Colombia after winning Sunday's runoff election, according to official results. The 52-year-old former businessman defeated leftist senator Gustavo Petro by a margin of 52.3% to 47.7%, with nearly all votes counted.
Election Results and Reaction
De la Espriella's victory marks a sharp turn to the right for Colombia, which had seen a surge in support for progressive candidates in recent years. The president-elect campaigned on a platform of law and order, promising to crack down on crime and leftist guerrillas. In his victory speech, he said: "Today, Colombia has chosen freedom over socialism. We will restore order and prosperity."
Petro, a former M-19 guerrilla and two-time presidential candidate, conceded defeat and called for unity. "I recognize the result and wish the new government success, but I will continue to fight for social justice," he said.
Background and Campaign
De la Espriella, a self-made millionaire from the Caribbean coast, ran as the candidate of the Democratic Center party, founded by former President Álvaro Uribe. He promised to cut taxes, reduce government spending, and renegotiate the 2016 peace deal with the FARC rebels. His campaign was marked by controversial statements, including calling for the military to shoot drug traffickers on sight.
The election was held amid high polarization and concerns about violence. At least 40 candidates were killed during the campaign, mostly local politicians. De la Espriella's victory is seen as a blow to the peace process and a setback for leftist movements in Latin America.
International Implications
De la Espriella's win has been welcomed by conservative leaders in the region, including Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro and the United States' Donald Trump. However, it has raised concerns among human rights groups about the future of Colombia's democracy. The president-elect has promised to take a hard line on crime and to boost foreign investment, particularly in the oil and mining sectors.
