Abelardo de la Espriella was formally inaugurated as president of Colombia this Friday, in a ceremony held in the city of Cali, where he will serve during the 2026-2030 term. The event marked the beginning of a new political era in the country following the end of the communist Gustavo Petro's mandate.
The inauguration ceremony took place with the participation of national authorities and international guests, and the central moment was the oath taken by the president of the Senate, Honorio Henríquez, who also placed the presidential sash on the new leader.
De la Espriella's assumption of office comes after an electoral victory in the second round that opened a new political scenario in Colombia. His rise to power represents a significant shift from the previous administration, with an agenda focused on structural reforms, security, and policies aimed at reducing the size of the state.
Prior to his inauguration, the new president held meetings with various international leaders, including Argentine president Javier Milei, with whom he showed ideological affinity. During that meeting, De la Espriella praised Milei and described him as an “inspiration” and a “beacon,” highlighting his influence in the political process that led him to the presidency.
