CALI— Abelardo de la Espriella assumed the Presidency of Colombia this Friday and announced a change of course in the country's security policy, adopting a hardline stance against guerrillas and drug trafficking organizations.
The new president, who succeeded Gustavo Petro after winning
the presidential elections in June, promised to combat illegal armed groups and
end the negotiation strategy pursued during the previous administration.
The inauguration ceremony was held in Cali, instead of
Bogotá, a decision laden with symbolism given the importance the new government
places on restoring security and territorial control. De la Espriella later
delivered his first presidential address at a military battalion, where he
introduced members of his cabinet and the new military leadership.
During his campaign and in his first statements as
president-elect, De la Espriella warned armed groups that they must submit to
justice and ruled out offering concessions similar to those considered during
Petro's administration.
On the international front, the new president is also
proposing a new phase in relations with the United States. De la Espriella, who
had the support of US President Donald Trump during the campaign, seeks to
strengthen cooperation between the two countries, particularly in security and
the fight against drug trafficking.
The start of his term represents a shift to the right in
Colombian politics and opens a new chapter marked by a more aggressive security
agenda, a closer relationship with Washington, and the challenge of confronting
the armed groups that maintain a presence in various regions of the country.