Far-right Candidate De la Espriella Advances to Colombia Presidential Runoff

Far-right candidate Abelardo de la Espriella has surged to the forefront of Colombian politics, winning the first round of the presidential election and securing a spot in the runoff. The 47-year-old millionaire lawyer, often dubbed "El Tigre," garnered over 43% of the vote, positioning himself as the main challenger to the country's first leftist government.

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We are going to change Colombia's history forever.

De la Espriella will face off against leftist senator Iván Cepeda, an ally of current President Gustavo Petro, who secured nearly 41% of the vote. The election results signal a significant shift, challenging not only the ruling left but also the traditional right, represented by former President Álvaro Uribe. Uribe's protégé, Senator Paloma Valencia, lagged in third place with less than 7% of the vote.

"We are going to change Colombia's history forever," De la Espriella declared in a video message, expressing admiration for leaders like Donald Trump, Nayib Bukele, and Javier Milei. He appeals to a segment of the electorate disillusioned with traditional politicians, whom he refers to as "the usual ones." His campaign has focused on a strong stance against crime, promising mega-prisons and a hardline approach in a nation grappling with escalating violence fueled by drug trafficking.

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We are going to celebrate this victory of the never-have-beens, of those who have never lived off the state's teat.

"Today, more than ever, we stand firm for the homeland," De la Espriella concluded, offering a military salute alongside his family. His victory represents a potent rejection of the political establishment and a call for radical change, setting the stage for a deeply polarized presidential runoff.

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Today more than ever, we stand firm for the homeland.