Abelardo de la Espriella Assumes Office as President of Colombia

Right-wing politician and political novice Abelardo de la Espriella has been sworn in as President of Colombia for the 2026-2030 term during a ceremony in Cali.

Key points

• The inauguration ceremony took place in Cali under heavy security in the country's southwestern region.
• De la Espriella's agenda focuses on fighting guerrillas and drug trafficking while abandoning peace negotiations initiated by his predecessor.
• The 48-year-old lawyer is supported by U.S. President Donald Trump and marks a shift toward closer ties with Washington.

Why it matters

The transition brings a right-wing outsider to power in Colombia, signaling a sharp pivot in national security strategy, the abandonment of prior peace talks, and closer alignment with the United States.