Abelardo de la Espriella Wins Colombia’s Presidential Quick Count

BOGOTA, Colombia—In a closely watched election, right-wing populist candidate Abelardo de la Espriella has emerged as the narrow winner of Colombia’s presidential race, according to preliminary results. Electoral authorities released a ‘quick count’ showing de la Espriella leading with 49.7% of the vote, while his left-wing rival Iván Cepeda garnered 48.7%. Blank votes made up the remainder. Though no final result has been certified, a manual count is underway to confirm the outcome. Historically, quick counts align closely with the final certified results.

Following the announcement, De la Espriella declared a new political era for Colombia, emphasizing democratic progress and prosperity. In contrast, Cepeda, affiliated with outgoing President Gustavo Petro, announced plans to challenge results across approximately 33,000 ballot boxes. Petro supported the challenge, voicing concerns about preliminary count irregularities and advocating for calm until the votes are verified.

Security ranked as the primary concern for voters, according to polling data. Colombia has faced intensified armed conflicts and increased cartel activities affecting drug trafficking routes and illegal mining. Membership in armed groups has reportedly doubled in five years, exacerbating displacement and insecurity.

As a newcomer to politics, De la Espriella is a millionaire businessman and criminal defense attorney known as ‘El Tigre.’ Backed by endorsements such as President Donald Trump, he has committed to stringent security measures. His promises include military offensives against guerrillas, attacks on drug operations, and the construction of ten ‘mega prisons.’ De la Espriella also aims to promote fracking and overturn Petro’s bans on new hydrocarbon and mining contracts.

His career spans high-profile defense cases, notably for controversial figures like pyramid scheme founders and Alex Saab, a businessman linked to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Beyond his legal career, De la Espriella has embraced a media persona with promotional videos and songs. Dubbed ‘the devil’s advocate,’ he has established a legal and media empire marked by luxury goods and fashion through ‘De La Espriella Style.’

Seeking improved relations with Washington, De la Espriella secured support from prominent figures, including Marco Rubio, praising Colombia’s potential future. This victory fits into a larger trend of rightward shifts in Latin America, with similar governments in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Honduras, and Paraguay. Peru may join these ranks as its latest election outcome remains pending.