Colombia's new president faces tough challenges with no legislative majority

Abelardo de la Espriella begins his presidency of Colombia on August 7, confronting a daunting agenda that includes governing without a legislative majority and tackling critical issues such as security, healthcare, and fiscal stability. His administration marks a sharp departure from the policies of his leftist predecessor, Gustavo Petro.

De la Espriella won a narrow victory in the June 21 election, securing 49.66% of the vote against Iván Cepeda of the Pacto Histórico, who garnered 48.70%. The Pacto Histórico party, Petro's party, remains the largest force in Congress with 26 senators and 43 representatives. While the right-wing Centro Democrático party will support De la Espriella's government, fissures have already appeared in their relationship.

Economists like Daniel Valero of Credicorp Capital emphasize the need for "early victories" for De la Espriella, particularly in combating armed groups and demonstrating rapid improvements in the healthcare system, which is in crisis. The security situation is precarious, with the number of members in Colombian armed groups increasing by 23.5% in 2025 to over 27,000. Major groups include the Clan del Golfo, the ELN guerrilla, and FARC dissidents.

The outgoing government's "total peace" policy, aimed at negotiating with or securing the submission of illegal armed groups, has largely failed. De la Espriella has issued a stark warning to those outside the law, giving them one month to "come to their senses" and organize their submission to the rule of law, stating there will be no room for negotiation in his government.

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To those who are outside the law, a categorical message: you have one month to come to your senses (...) and organize your submission to the rule of law. In my government n