Abelardo de la Espriella, a hard-right politician elected president of Colombia, presents himself as an anti-establishment figure promising to tackle crime, armed violence and drug trafficking. Multiple outlets describe his campaign as centred on a “firm hand” approach to public security and a rejection of traditional politics. Supporters have nicknamed him “The Tiger,” and he has projected a combative, patriotic style, including using military salutes during his campaign despite not having served in the military.
Euronews and other profiles say he created his political movement only months before the election, drawing on a model seen in other countries where leaders combine nationalist rhetoric with a promise of tougher policing. According to reports, his platform also includes major economic reforms aimed at reviving Colombia’s struggling economy.
Several accounts connect his political rise to international attention: Times of India reports backing from Donald Trump, while other sources focus more on his domestic agenda. The election process followed recent protests and clashes in Cali, where supporters and opponents of the candidate confronted police. De la Espriella defeated left-leaning Senator Iván Cepeda and has also indicated he would halt peace dialogue with militant factions.
