Kathmandu— Abelardo de la Espriella officially became Colombia's president on Friday, signaling a shift to the right for the Andean nation after winning a closely contested runoff election on June 21st against Senator Ivan Cepeda. The 48-year-old former lawyer and businessman pledged to prioritize security by cracking down on armed groups involved in the drug trade and forging stronger military alliances with the United States and Israel, while also promising to restore “order, authority and freedom” to Colombia. The inauguration took place in Cali, a city near major drug trafficking routes, amidst calls for protest from outgoing President Gustavo Petro who alleged election fraud.

Inauguration Ceremony and Initial Promises

During his inaugural address, De la Espriella firmly stated that dialogue with armed groups was “completely exhausted,” contrasting with the peaceful resolution approach favored by his predecessor. He vowed to eradicate what he termed “narcoterrorism” within Colombia and promised to establish mega-prisons for captured rebels and drug traffickers. The ceremony itself deviated from tradition, being held at a university in Cali rather than the capital city of Bogota, a location chosen due to its proximity to key areas affected by drug trafficking and violence.

International Guests and Diplomatic Shifts

The inauguration was attended by several international dignitaries including King Felipe VI of Spain, acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and the presidents of Argentina, Ecuador, and Chile. Notably absent was outgoing president Petro, who instead called for mass protests, alleging election fraud without providing supporting evidence. De la Espriella has also signaled a shift in diplomatic relations, announcing plans to resume ties with Israel while severing them with Cuba and Nicaragua.

Background of the New President

De la Espriella, known as “El Tigre” (The Tiger), is a newcomer to public office, having previously worked as a lawyer and businessman. He self-funded his campaign through profits from his law firm and ventures in sectors including agri-food, real estate, and fashion. His commitment to joining a US-backed coalition against drug trafficking – the “Shield of the Americas” – earned him the backing of former US President Donald Trump. He has also proposed joint military operations with Washington and potentially hosting US troops on Colombian soil.

De la Espriella’s victory adds to a growing trend of right-wing political gains in Latin America, and his administration is expected to prioritize security issues and closer ties with the United States.

(With inputs from DW)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.