Far-Right Candidate De La Espriella Wins Tight Colombia Race

Far-right lawyer Abelardo De La Espriella has won Colombia’s presidential run-off election after securing a narrow lead over left-wing Senator Ivan Cepeda, according to preliminary results released by electoral authorities.

With nearly all ballots counted, De La Espriella received 49.7 percent of the vote, while Cepeda secured 48.7 percent. The closely fought contest marks a significant political shift in Colombia and signals a return of the country’s right wing to power after the presidency of Gustavo Petro, Colombia’s first leftist president.

Addressing supporters in the coastal city of Barranquilla, De La Espriella pledged to govern for all Colombians and promised a change in direction for the country. He has criticized the outgoing administration over economic challenges and security concerns, while advocating stronger support for the oil and gas industry and lower taxes.

The president-elect also received congratulations from United States President Donald Trump, whose backing became a notable feature of the campaign.

Despite the result, Ivan Cepeda said his campaign would seek a detailed review of thousands of ballot boxes before fully accepting the outcome. Speaking to supporters in Bogota, he emphasized the need for dialogue and political cooperation while defending the social reforms and peace initiatives introduced under President Petro.

Security emerged as one of the most important issues during the election campaign. Many voters expressed concerns about rising extortion, drug trafficking and violence in regions where armed groups and criminal organizations continue to operate.

During the campaign, De La Espriella vowed to end peace talks with dissident armed groups and pursue a tougher security strategy. His proposals include a major military campaign aimed at weakening illegal armed organizations operating across the country.

More than 26 million Colombians participated in the election, reflecting strong voter engagement in one of the most closely contested presidential races in recent years.

Political analysts believe the narrow margin of victory could force the incoming president to seek broader support in Congress, where divisions remain strong. The result also reflects a wider trend across parts of Latin America, where several countries have recently elected right-leaning governments.