Colombia began a new political era on Friday, August 7, 2026, as conservative Abelardo de la Espriella, nicknamed "El Tigre," was sworn in as president. He vowed to overturn much of former President Gustavo Petro’s left-wing agenda, adopting a tougher stance on security, economic policy, and relations with the United States.

De la Espriella inherits a country grappling with soaring violence, a fragmented Congress, and a $34 billion financing gap. Despite winning the presidency, he did not secure control of Congress, facing a numerically large but poorly disciplined coalition. His legislative agenda is expected to be negotiated on a bill-by-bill basis.

Speaking at the Pichincha Battalion military base in Cali, de la Espriella declared, "I have come to close a long chapter of national resignation and, together with the people, embark on the most profound transformation of our destiny." He also sent "a firm message to the Colombian people: the time has come to restore order, authority, and freedom."

The inauguration was attended by conservative leaders from the region, including Argentina's Javier Milei, Ecuador’s Daniel Noboa, and Chile’s José Antonio Kast. The U.S. delegation included Attorney General Todd Blanche. Spain's King Felipe VI and FIFA President Gianni Infantino were also present, according to the Associated Press.

De la Espriella faces the challenge of translating his campaign promises into governance amid financial constraints and political fragmentation. His presidency marks one of the most significant political shifts in Latin America in recent years.

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