Barranquilla, Colombia - Abelardo de la Espriella, a U.S.-backed lawyer, won Colombia's presidential runoff with 49.66% of the vote, closely defeating left-wing Senator Ivan Cepeda at 48.70%. This victory ignites protests nationwide, with demonstrators expressing discontent in major cities including Cali and Bogota.
De la Espriella, candidate of the National Salvation Movement, promises a democratic government and asserts it will bring security and economic improvement. He stated, "Mine will be an absolutely democratic government and a guarantor of freedom" during his victory speech.
U.S. President Donald Trump celebrated the outcome, praising the right-wing shift in Colombia. However, the aftermath reveals significant divisions among the populace, with supporters celebrating and critics warning against past governance that favored the wealthy.
The political landscape is tense, with Cepeda refraining from conceding and hinting at potential recounts. De la Espriella's administration will be challenged to unify the country amid continued threats from guerrilla groups and ongoing issues of economic inequality.