Right-wing lawyer Abelardo De La Espriella is set to take office as Colombia’s new president on Friday. He has promised tougher action on security, drug trafficking and the economy.
De La Espriella, 48, won June’s presidential runoff after campaigning on a hard-line security platform. He also promised to reduce the size of the state by as much as 40% and revive Colombia’s oil and gas industry.
The new president has never held elected office. He is also an ally of US President Donald Trump.
De La Espriella Colombia Presidency Signals Rightward Shift
De La Espriella’s victory reflects a wider political shift across Latin America.
In countries including Peru, Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Bolivia and Panama, voters have increasingly focused on crime and weak economic conditions.
As a result, right-wing candidates have gained support by promising stronger security measures and economic reforms.
De La Espriella defeated left-wing senator Ivan Cepeda in the runoff. He will replace leftist President Gustavo Petro.
New Colombia President Plans Tougher Security Policy
Security is expected to be one of De La Espriella’s main priorities.
He has blamed Petro’s government for the growth of armed groups across Colombia.
Furthermore, he has promised to end what he describes as stalled peace talks with armed organizations.
His administration plans to increase military pressure and build large prisons.
However, several of his proposals will require support from Colombia’s divided Congress. Analysts therefore expect some policies to change during negotiations.
Petro has not recognized De La Espriella’s victory and has called for demonstrations in several major cities.
De La Espriella to Make History With Cali Inauguration
The new president will take the oath of office in Cali rather than at Colombia’s Congress in Bogota.
It will be the first Colombian presidential inauguration held outside the congressional building in the capital.
The ceremony will take place under tight security in southwestern Cali.
The king of Spain and several Latin American presidents are expected to attend. Argentina, Ecuador and Chile are among the countries expected to send their leaders.
The United States will send a delegation led by acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Investors Welcome Colombia’s Market-Friendly Agenda
Investors have responded positively to De La Espriella’s business-friendly economic plans.
However, analysts warn that major changes could take time because Colombia faces fiscal pressure and high public debt.
The country’s stock exchange has called for easier access for foreign and retail investors.
It has also proposed lower transaction costs and changes to dividend taxes.
Meanwhile, oil and mining groups have welcomed the new administration’s plans to increase production.
They say Colombia needs faster reforms to expand gas supplies and address other economic challenges.
Security and Anti-Corruption to Dominate First 100 Days
The first 100 days of the new government are likely to focus on policies that De La Espriella can implement directly.
Colombia Risk Analysis said security and anti-corruption measures would probably become the most visible priorities.
The consultancy also expects continued military pressure against armed groups.
Coca eradication is likely to remain another major focus. Authorities could use aerial spraying and military operations as part of the strategy.
However, the government could face pressure if its security policies create new social or political tensions.
De La Espriella Builds His Cabinet
De La Espriella has relied heavily on Vice President-elect Jose Manuel Restrepo.
Restrepo, a former finance minister, recently traveled to Washington for talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The president-elect has also selected several other senior officials.
Omar Bula, a former World Food Programme official, will serve as foreign minister.
Retired Major General Jorge Eduardo Mora has been chosen as defense minister.
Electrical engineer Maria Arboleda will lead the energy ministry.
Miguel Gomez will take charge of the finance ministry.
Colombia Faces Major Fiscal Challenges
Gomez has said Colombia’s fiscal deficit could stand between 7% and 8% of GDP.
That figure is higher than estimates from the outgoing government.
The incoming administration plans to introduce a tax reform focused on economic growth.
However, reducing taxes could put additional pressure on government finances.
De La Espriella will therefore face a difficult balance between encouraging investment, reducing the size of the state and maintaining public finances.
His administration’s first months will show how quickly he can turn his campaign promises into government policy.
