A significant political shift is being recorded in Colombia following the electoral victory of Donald Trump's choice, the nationalist lawyer and businessman Abelardo De La Espriella, who has emerged as the country's new president, putting an end to the left-wing government period under Gustavo Petro. With central slogans focused on security, reducing the size of the state, and boosting economic growth, the 47-year-old politician promises to change the trajectory of one of Latin America's largest economies. Known to his supporters as "The Tiger," De La Espriella will officially take office on August 7.
From law to the presidency
Abelardo De La Espriella hails from the city of Monteria on Colombia's Caribbean coast and gained national recognition through his legal career, television appearances, and business activities. Before entering politics, he became known as a high-profile lawyer, taking on cases with strong political and social impact. At the same time, he developed business activities in the sectors of real estate, apparel, wine, and rum. He is married, a father of four, and holds citizenship in Colombia, the US, and Italy. In his country, he is also known for his love of vallenato music, a traditional genre of Colombian folk music.
The rise of a political outsider
De La Espriella entered the presidential race as a political "outsider," quickly building momentum through an aggressive campaign that focused on security, economic recovery, and intense criticism of the Petro government. His popularity increased as concerns about crime, the activity of armed organizations, and economic uncertainty grew. He presented himself as the candidate who can restore order and take immediate measures against the challenges facing the country. He even argued that his political movement, "Defenders of the Homeland," grew without the support of traditional parties or major business interests and that he personally funded his campaign.
Marginal victory and deep political polarization
The new president finished first in the first round of the elections, gathering 43.7% of the votes. In the second round, he narrowly defeated the left-wing senator Ivan Cepeda, receiving 49.66% against his opponent's 48.7%. The result highlighted the intense political divisions that still characterize Colombia, but at the same time, it gave a mandate for a government that promises a stricter security policy and a more liberal economic approach.
Security at the center
Combating crime was the main theme of his campaign. De La Espriella believes that the current strategy against illegal armed organizations has failed and has pledged to abandon peace negotiations in favor of a more aggressive military policy. His key priorities include intensifying military operations against armed groups, stricter handling of drug cartels, strengthening the state presence in conflict zones, and expanding the prison system. His proposal to build ten new major prisons is a signature measure, which has become a central element of his agenda for restoring public security.
Comparisons with Nayib Bukele
Throughout the election period, De La Espriella was often compared to the president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele. The comparisons are based on his tough rhetoric against crime, the image of a strong leader he projects, and his support for large prison projects. He rejects these reports, arguing that his policies are designed specifically for the needs of Colombia. However, Bukele's popularity across Latin America has made such comparisons inevitable.
Smaller state and pro-investment economy
On the economic front, De La Espriella favors a more business-friendly policy. Among his key commitments is a 40% reduction in the size of the state, broadening the tax base, attracting private investment, and reducing bureaucracy. He argues that excessive state intervention has limited the country's development potential and that a more attractive business environment is required to create new jobs.
A shift in oil policy
One of the key points of differentiation from Gustavo Petro concerns energy policy. While the outgoing government sought a gradual reduction in dependence on fossil fuels, De La Espriella supports strengthening hydrocarbon production. His plans include restarting oil exploration, utilizing hydraulic fracturing (fracking), and increasing crude oil production. According to his estimates, the implementation of these measures could almost double the country's daily production to 1.3 million barrels.
Businesses, wealth, and controversial cases
His business activity was at the center of the election controversy. Investigative journalism in Colombia reported that several companies associated with him had recorded losses or had ceased operations in recent years, with his law firm remaining his most profitable activity. At the same time, as a lawyer, he had undertaken the defense of individuals linked to cases of corruption, financial crimes, and paramilitary organizations. Among his most well-known clients was Alex Saab, who has been targeted by US authorities for cases related to money laundering and the regime of former Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro.
The great challenges of the day after
Despite his victory, the new president is called upon to face a series of complex challenges, notes Reuters. The activity of armed organizations and drug trafficking networks remains intense in many areas of the country, while the economy needs new investments and stronger growth rates. At the same time, the narrow electoral result demonstrates that the country remains deeply divided, which may make it difficult to push through his reforms. The election of Abelardo De La Espriella constitutes one of the most significant political upheavals of recent years in Colombia and is part of a broader trend of strengthening leaders who prioritize security and pro-investment policies across Latin America. Whether he will manage to turn campaign promises into tangible results will determine not only his own political path but also the country's future in the coming years.
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