Kathmandu— Abelardo de la Espriella began his presidency of Colombia with a series of highly criticized actions and decisions that have drawn attention to his administration's policies and priorities. From an awkward display during military honors on Inauguration Day to controversial foreign policy choices and domestic economic plans, De la Espriella’s first four days in office signaled a significant shift from the previous government. These moves include backing out of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, re-establishing ties with Israel despite its policies in Palestine, and refusing international aid following a major earthquake—all while facing scrutiny over his past legal work representing paramilitary groups.

Inaugural Gaffes and U.S. Influence

A video of President de la Espriella awkwardly marching and saluting during military honors on Inauguration Day went viral, drawing criticism for its unusual display. Simultaneously, the U.S. State Department announced a $1 billion support package for Colombia’s participation in Trump’s Shield of the Americas project, framed as a drug war initiative but seen by some as a means to target political opponents. A car bomb explosion on the same day underscored growing instability within the country.

Earthquake Response and Policy Reversals

President de la Espriella faced criticism for his delayed response to a 7.4 magnitude earthquake, appearing hours later smiling and greeting supporters while the nation dealt with damaged infrastructure and collapsed buildings. He also reversed course on several key policies, withdrawing Colombia from China’s Belt and Road Initiative—an announcement made by the U.S. ambassador-designate—and re-establishing relations with Israel, including recognizing its sovereignty over Syria's Golan Heights.

Economic Policies and Social Concerns

De la Espriella has signaled a commitment to free market principles and reducing the size of the Colombian state, promising cuts to government spending and repealing a wealth tax. Critics argue these policies will exacerbate existing inequalities and prioritize foreign investment over social welfare. He also plans to restart a militarized coca eradication program despite its past devastating social and environmental consequences, opposed by many within Colombia.

Past Connections to Paramilitary Groups

De la Espriella’s career has been largely focused on legal work, notably representing figures associated with the AUC, a paramilitary conglomerate responsible for decades of violence in Colombia. His representation of ex-president Álvaro Uribe, who himself faces accusations of ties to these groups, has further fueled concerns about his commitment to justice and reconciliation. Ivan Cepeda, a former House representative, stated that “Paramilitarism created an apparatus of death that erected an immense mountain of corpses upon which the pinnacle of power in Colombia was reached.”

De la Espriella’s administration is moving forward with plans for significant economic restructuring and security policies, despite widespread criticism and concerns about its potential impact on Colombian society. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether these policies address the country's deep-rooted problems or exacerbate existing tensions.

(With inputs from CounterPunch)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.