Trump-backed lawyer wins Colombia's presidential election in tight race

Colombia has swung decisively to the right with the narrow victory of lawyer Abelardo de la Espriella in Sunday's presidential runoff. The flamboyant, US-backed candidate, who has never held public office, secured 49.66 percent of the vote, edging out his left-wing rival Ivan Cepeda, who garnered 48.70 percent. De la Espriella's win promises a tougher stance against drug-trafficking guerrilla groups and is expected to mend strained relations with the United States.

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We are beginning a new era!

"We are beginning a new era!" de la Espriella declared to supporters in Barranquilla, speaking from behind bullet-proof glass. He issued a stark warning to those involved in violence and drug trafficking, stating, "their time is up!" His victory aligns with a broader trend across Latin America, where right-wing candidates have been gaining power by advocating for stringent security policies.

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For those who have sown violence, terror, drug trafficking, and corruption all these years, their time is up!

The election campaign was marred by violence, including guerrilla bomb attacks and the assassination of a prominent conservative candidate. The aftermath of the vote also revealed deep divisions within the country. In Cali, thousands protested the results, clashing with riot police. However, supporters of de la Espriella celebrated in the streets, expressing hope that "The Tiger," as he is known, would bring much-needed security, employment, and dignity.

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I'm very happy. I believe a lot in the country, I believe a lot in freedom.

Despite the close margin of victory, with only a few hundred thousand votes separating the candidates, de la Espriella adopted a conciliatory tone in his victory speech. He vowed to govern democratically, uphold freedom and institutional order, and serve all Colombians, regardless of their political affiliation. His presidency marks a return to power for Colombia's right wing, which has historically dominated the country's political landscape.

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Abelardo, at this moment, is giving us above all a sense of security, employment, and dignity.