CALI — Abelardo De La Espriella was sworn in as Colombia's president on Friday, taking office after a closely contested election and promising a tougher security strategy, economic reforms and a break with many of the policies of his predecessor, Gustavo Petro.
The inauguration, held in the southwestern city of Cali rather than the capital, Bogotá, marked the first time in modern Colombian history that a presidential swearing-in ceremony was moved from the traditional congressional venue. Supporters and foreign dignitaries attended the event under heightened security as authorities prepared for demonstrations by government opponents.
De La Espriella, a lawyer who won the June presidential runoff by a narrow margin over left-wing candidate Iván Cepeda, pledged to restore public security, confront armed groups through military action rather than negotiations and pursue policies aimed at reviving economic growth. During his campaign, he vowed to intensify efforts against drug trafficking and illegal mining while strengthening regional security cooperation.
The new president succeeds Gustavo Petro, Colombia's first leftist president, whose administration pursued a "total peace" policy centered on negotiations with illegal armed groups. De La Espriella has said his government will end those talks and adopt a more forceful approach toward insurgent and criminal organizations.
Petro has repeatedly challenged the legitimacy of the election result, alleging irregularities, but also said he would hand over power in accordance with Colombia's constitution. Colombia's electoral authorities previously certified De La Espriella as the winner of the June vote after completing the official count.
Ahead of the inauguration, De La Espriella announced an 18-member cabinet that includes former politicians, diplomats, military figures and technocrats. Key appointments include retired General Jorge Eduardo Mora as defense minister, Rodrigo Lara Restrepo as interior minister and Miguel Gómez Martínez as finance minister.
The incoming administration faces significant challenges, including persistent violence by armed groups, fiscal pressures and a polarized political landscape. Analysts also note that De La Espriella's governing coalition lacks a congressional majority, meaning his government will likely need support from multiple parties to advance its legislative agenda.
The presidency confirmed that De La Espriella's four-year constitutional term begins immediately following Friday's inauguration, with his administration expected to begin implementing its security and economic agenda in the coming days.
