Colombia’s Presidential Election Ushers in Right-Wing Victory Amid Protests

On June 21, 2026, Abelardo de la Espriella, a lawyer backed by the U.S. and leading the National Salvation Movement, narrowly won Colombia’s presidential runoff. He secured 49.66% of the vote against left-wing Senator Ivan Cepeda’s 48.70%, marking a shift to the right. This result ignited protests across the country.

De la Espriella’s victory speeches in Barranquilla, Colombia, emphasized a new era focused on combating violence, terrorism, and drug trafficking. This aligns with his ‘iron fist’ policy supported by Washington, continuing a regional trend favoring security-driven governance.

Former President Trump celebrated this outcome with fervent acclaim. The international community of right-wing leaders followed suit with congratulations. Yet, the country remains divided, illustrated by the heated protests in cities such as Cali and Bogota, where clashes with police were reported.

Both joy and resentment marked the response to De la Espriella’s triumph. Supporters celebrated in several cities, wearing Colombia’s national football jersey that he had used as a campaign symbol. Admiration for his promised security and economic reforms was common among his followers.

“Abelardo is about to give us security, employment, and dignity,” remarked Daniela Oliveros, a supporter in Barranquilla.

Despite the protests, De la Espriella used his win to appeal for unity, promising democratic governance respecting diversity and inclusion. He aims to govern for all, assuring continuity and respect for institutional integrity.

The election result potentially impacts Colombia’s peace process, signed a decade ago with FARC guerrillas. De la Espriella intends to cancel negotiations with dissent groups, starting a U.S.-supported airstrike campaign against them. Despite prosperity and peace, Colombia struggles with drug cartels influencing parts of the country.

More than 26 million voters participated, around 63% turnout, with the final vote difference between candidates being 247,000. Although electoral fraud is improbable, Cepeda hesitated to concede, waiting for complete counts and validation.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism regarding future cooperation with De la Espriella’s administration. De la Espriella urged Cepeda to remain peaceful and accept opposition role, warning against encouraging violence.