Just days before the presidential elections in Colombia, scheduled for this Sunday (31), one of the names that stands out most in the country's political scene is that of lawyer and businessman Abelardo de la Espriella. Without experience in elected office, the far-right candidate appears in second place in the opinion polls and stands out as one of the favorites to advance to the second round.
With a discourse strongly aligned with the conservative right and inspired by leaders such as Donald Trump, Javier Milei, and Nayib Bukele, De la Espriella built his candidacy presenting himself as an alternative to the traditional parties and political forces that have dominated Colombia for decades.
His campaign is based on the pillars of public safety, the fight against drug trafficking, reducing the size of the state, and a proposal for a profound transformation of Colombian institutions. The candidate claims to represent a break with the current political model and presents himself as the leader of a national renewal project, although his economic policies are aligned with the well-known neoliberalism and his political agenda is that of the far right, which is anything but "outsider."
Disruptive discourse and radical promises
Abelardo de la Espriella, leader of the Defenders of the Fatherland movement, focuses on a narrative centered on order, patriotism, and administrative efficiency.
Among his main promises is the construction of ten maximum-security mega-prisons, inspired by the model adopted by Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele in the fight against criminal organizations.
The candidate also advocates for an offensive against drug trafficking and promises to eradicate illegal coca plantations through the spraying of cultivated areas. According to his proposals, approximately 330 hectares of illicit plantations would be eliminated.
Another campaign promise is reducing the size of the state. De la Espriella states that he intends to decrease the size of the Colombian state by 40% and reduce taxes levied on companies, with the aim of stimulating investment and economic growth.
The government program is called "Miracle Country" and foresees strong use of presidential powers. The candidate states that he intends to sign 90 decrees in the first days of government to accelerate the implementation of the changes promised during the campaign.
Petrobras Alternative
Analysts point out that part of the electorate sees the candidate as an alternative to the president's government. Gustavo Petro and also to the country's more traditional political groups. Although Abelardo de la Espriella's origins are not the same as those of the so-called traditional groups, conservative political thought and economic neoliberalism do not, in practice, bring elements that are truly different from those of the old right.
Polls indicate that he has a good chance of advancing to the second round, where he could face candidates supported by the main national political groups.
Among the opponents are Iván Cepeda, identified with the political camp of current president Gustavo Petro, and Paloma Valencia, supported by former president Álvaro Uribe.
Election simulations released during the campaign indicate that De la Espriella appears in a competitive position and, in some scenarios, as the favorite in potential second-round contests.
A career marked by activities outside of politics.
Abelardo de la Espriella's career was built primarily outside of political activity.
A criminal defense lawyer and businessman, he became known for working on high-profile cases and representing clients involved in national and international controversies. Among them is David Murcia, linked to a financial scheme that caused losses to thousands of Colombians.
Besides practicing law, De la Espriella also pursued activities in other areas. He recorded two music albums, published five books, and participated in television productions.
Before entering the presidential race, he divided his time between residences in Miami, in the United States, and in the Tuscany region of Italy.
His public image is marked by a sophisticated style and a demeanor often associated with that of a successful businessman. Known by the nickname "The Tiger," he usually appears at events and interviews wearing designer clothes and a carefully crafted look.
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