Colombia's new president sworn in
Abelardo de la Espriella has been sworn in as Colombia's new president, marking a significant shift to the political right. He took office in a ceremony held in Cali, rather than Bogotá. The Cali event underscored his administration's firm stance against illegal armed groups. De la Espriella won a runoff election in June, succeeding leftist President Gustavo Petro. His victory signals a sharp ideological pivot for Colombia, moving away from Petro's policies of negotiating with armed groups. The new president outlined an ambitious agenda centered on security, economic growth, and institutional reform. He vowed to intensify military action against illegal armed groups, bomb jungle cocaine laboratories, and construct "mega prisons." De la Espriella also plans to drastically reduce the size of the state and implement tax cuts. In foreign policy, President de la Espriella pledged closer ties with the United States. He offered to facilitate joint military operations and potentially host US troops. His administration intends to restore diplomatic relations with Israel and sever them with Cuba and Nicaragua. He is also set to join the "Shield of the Americas" to combat drug trafficking. The inauguration was attended by international dignitaries, including King Felipe VI of Spain. However, the transition has been marked by political polarization. Outgoing President Gustavo Petro boycotted the event, questioning the election results and de la Espriella's dual citizenship. Protests also emerged, highlighting deep divisions within the country. De la Espriella proposed decentralizing government by establishing Barranquilla as an alternate capital.
