Conservative businessman Abelardo de la Espriella has been declared the winner of Colombia's presidential runoff, defeating progressive lawmaker Iván Cepeda by a narrow 1 percentage point. The result, announced by electoral authorities on Wednesday, marks a shift away from outgoing President Gustavo Petro's policies, which Cepeda had promised to continue.
De la Espriella, a political outsider endorsed by U.S. President Donald Trump, will begin his four-year term on August 7. His victory adds Colombia to a growing list of countries turning to outsiders amid complex social, security, and economic challenges.
Cepeda initially refused to accept the results, citing concerns over foreign interference and vote manipulation. He later conceded, calling the outcome an "extraordinarily narrow difference" but vowing to maintain a "democratic, vigilant, and constructive opposition."
De la Espriella's campaign focused on tougher measures against armed groups, contrasting with Petro's failed peace negotiations. Human rights organizations have documented over 50 massacres in Colombia this year, highlighting ongoing violence.
The election results were delayed by a recount, which confirmed de la Espriella's victory. He has since expressed plans to align Colombia with Trump's "Shield of the Americas" initiative, signaling a shift in foreign policy.