Far-right lawyer Abelardo De La Espriella has won Colombia’s presidential run-off election by a narrow margin, according to preliminary results released by electoral authorities.
De La Espriella secured 49.7 percent of the vote, narrowly defeating left-wing Senator Ivan Cepeda, who received 48.7 percent, with almost all votes counted.
Cepeda, 63, had promised to continue the policies of outgoing President Gustavo Petro, including social programmes and peace negotiations with armed groups.
De La Espriella, who had criticised Petro’s economic and security policies, campaigned on promises to end talks with rebel groups, strengthen the oil and gas industry, and reduce taxes.
“I will govern for all Colombians,” De La Espriella told supporters during celebrations in Barranquilla.
The victory marks a return of Colombia’s right wing to power after years dominated by left-leaning leadership. However, the close election result could force the incoming president to compromise with a divided Congress.
Security was a major issue during the campaign, with voters concerned about rising crime, extortion, and drug trafficking. De La Espriella has pledged a tougher security approach, including military action against armed groups.
Cepeda said he would wait for a final review of the vote and confirmed that his campaign was challenging results from thousands of polling stations.
The election reflects a broader political shift in parts of Latin America, where several countries have recently elected right-wing leaders.
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