Far-right candidate De la Espriella claims Colombia election victory

In Colombia, far-right candidate Abelardo De la Espriella appears to be on course to win a tightly contested presidential election, according to initial results showing him ahead with nearly 50 percent of the vote. Although official counting is still ongoing, his supporters have already begun celebrating in several cities, including Barranquilla. De la Espriella, who is backed by US President Donald Trump, declared victory and promised to govern for all Colombians. His rival, leftist senator Ivan Cepeda, said he will wait for the final official count while challenging thousands of polling stations over alleged irregularities. De la Espriella has pledged a hardline security approach, including a crackdown on armed groups, which has boosted his popularity among supporters calling for stronger leadership. He also said he received congratulations from US President Donald Trump, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed the results. The outcome signals a possible shift in Colombia’s political direction and could reshape its relations with Washington, security policy, and regional dynamics.

Al Jazeera's Teresa Bo reports from the city of Barranquilla, Colombia.

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