World
Abelardo de la Espriella assumes presidency of Colombia for the 2026-2030 term
Lawyer Abelardo de la Espriella was inaugurated as president of Colombia in Cali, with leaders from several countries in attendance.
Abelardo de la Espriella was inaugurated as president of Colombia in a ceremony held in the city of Cali, marking the beginning of his term for the 2026-2030 period. This election represents a shift in the political direction of the country, as he will distance himself from the approach of his predecessor, Gustavo Petro, who was not present at the event.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed a rigorous security deployment and brought together international leaders, including Javier Milei of Argentina, Daniel Noboa of Ecuador, and José Antonio Kast of Chile. Additionally, the King of Spain, Felipe VI, attended, highlighting the event's significance on the international stage.
During his inaugural speech, De la Espriella addressed several crucial topics, mentioning a strong stance against drug trafficking and the implementation of mega-prisons. He also announced a tax reform and a freeze on public spending, asserting that the option for dialogue with groups considered 'narco-terrorists' is exhausted.
Elsa Noguera was appointed as minister, leading the new cabinet, where the newly appointed vice minister of Infrastructure was introduced, who has experience in the Colombian Chamber of Infrastructure.
At the ceremony, Congresswoman Jennifer Pedraza was present but withdrew from the inauguration, expressing her dissatisfaction with certain interventions that occurred during the event. She stated that her presence was a sign of respect for the voters who supported the new president.
In his speech, Abelardo de la Espriella also quoted former Spanish president Adolfo Suárez, promising that his government would focus on working from the regions and on rebuilding authority and order in Colombia.