Colombia’s presidential election was narrowly won by right-wing candidate Abelardo de la Espriella, an initial, 99% complete vote count indicates.
The election was closely fought on issues of security, notably internal armed conflict, violence, and drug trafficking. De la Espriella promised a military crackdown in response to such problems.
If confirmed, the result would mean a defeat for Iván Cepeda, allied to the outgoing left-wing president, Gustavo Petro, leader of the political party Historic Pact.
De la Espriella declared
today begins a new stage for our country, a stage built on the free and democratic will of millions of citizens who chose to believe in a great, safe, prosperous Colombia full of opportunities.
Late on Sunday, June 21st, clashes were reported as police sought to disperse anti-de la Espriella’protesters in Colombia’s third-largest city Cali, who burned U.S. flags and were met with tear gas.
