Colombia Takes a Hard-Right Turn: Who Is Abelardo de la Espriella?
Elizabeth Dickinson of the Crisis Group explains the rise of a new political force in Bogotá
Colombia’s President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella is an unusual politician. For one, he has never held elected office and does not represent a traditional political party. Rather, he built a career as a criminal defense attorney, including in Miami, where he represented high-powered clients facing corruption allegations. He also became a familiar presence in Trump circles, with appearances at Trump properties, and holds American and Italian passports. Trump personally endorsed de la Espriella, seeking a new ally in Bogotá.
De la Espriella’s populist message resonated with Colombians, who narrowly elected him on Sunday. So what does the sudden emergence of this new political force mean for Colombia’s long struggle with armed violence? How does this election fit into a broader pattern of right-wing victories in the region? And can Colombia’s landmark 2016 peace agreement with the FARC hold?
I discuss all these questions, and more, with the International Crisis Group’s Deputy Director for Latin America, Elizabeth Dickinson, who spoke with me from Bogotá.
This conversation is truly an expert briefing. You’ll learn how de la Espriella rose so quickly, why his victory marks such a sharp break from Colombia’s recent political trajectory, and what his presidency may mean for the future of peace, security, and democracy in one of Latin America’s most consequential countries.
We recorded our conversation live here on Substack on Monday afternoon, after it became clear de la Espriella won by a razor sharp margin. This timely episode is available immediately below the fold for our paying subscribers— and I hope you’ll become one!
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