Political outsider Abelardo de la Espriella has won Colombia’s presidential election in a razor-thin runoff, marking a decisive shift to the right for the South American nation.
The flamboyant lawyer, who has never held public office, secured victory on Sunday with the backing of former US President Donald Trump, promising a hardline approach to drug trafficking and organized crime.
The result upends the political trajectory set by incumbent Gustavo Petro, whose progressive agenda faced mounting opposition.
Celebrations erupted in Bogota as supporters chanted against Petro, while Trump took to social media to declare the outcome a major win.
The narrow margin underscores the deep polarization within Colombian society and the volatility of the current political climate.
For markets, the election introduces uncertainty regarding future regulatory and trade policies.