After far-right lawyer Abelardo de la Speria, supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, narrowly won the second round of presidential elections held last Sunday in Colombia, protests erupted across the country.
Violent protests in capital and Cali
Violent clashes occurred between security forces and protesters rejecting the election results in the capital Bogota. In Cali, the country's third-largest city, protesters burned American flags and clashed with anti-riot police.
A student named Brandon said, "We will not support this government because as a young person, it does not represent me," vowing more protests. Another student, Nataya, said, "I believe we need someone who cares about all of us, not just a small segment."
De la Speria supporters celebrate victory
Meanwhile, de la Speria's supporters celebrated victory in various cities across the country, wearing the yellow jersey of the national football team that he adopted during his election campaign.
Speaking from behind bulletproof glass in front of thousands of supporters in Barranquilla, northern Colombia, de la Speria celebrated the beginning of a "new era."
Congratulations from the far right
U.S. President Donald Trump congratulated de la Speria in a statement on his Truth Social platform, saying, "It was a great honor to support him. I look forward to working together to build a strong relationship between Colombia and the United States that will bring a new level of greatness to both our countries."
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also congratulated the elected Colombian leader, praising future cooperation on security issues and "an end to illegal immigration to the United States."
Argentine President Javier Milei was one of the first to congratulate de la Speria, saying, "The majority of Colombians chose the path of economic freedom, prosperity, and lasting security."
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa commented, "Colombia chose order over impunity." Chilean President José Antonio Kast celebrated de la Speria's "great electoral victory," while Panamanian President José Raúl wished him success.
Official results and transfer of power
According to official results, Abelardo de la Speria received 49.65% of the vote, ahead of leftist senator rival Iván Cepeda, who received 48.70%.
De la Speria's victory is interpreted as a de facto rejection of the policies of outgoing President Gustavo Petro. The president-elect will take office on August 7 in a country that has been experiencing an internal armed conflict for more than six years.
