Abelardo de la Espriella sworn in as Colombia’s president

CALI – Abelardo de la Espriella, 48, has been sworn in as Colombia’s new president during an inauguration ceremony held in Cali rather than the traditional setting in Bogotá.

The far-right, Trump-aligned leader has promised a sharp break with the policies of his left-wing predecessor, Gustavo Petro. De la Espriella says he will take a much tougher approach toward drug cartels and armed groups, moving away from Petro’s emphasis on negotiations.

In his inaugural speech, he said armed criminal groups have two choices: surrender to the authorities or face the security forces. He also vowed to restore “order, authority and freedom” in Colombia.

De la Espriella narrowly won the June runoff against Petro ally Iván Cepeda. A businessman and criminal defense lawyer, he largely financed his campaign with his own fortune.

His political agenda includes reducing the size of government by around 40 percent, reviving Colombia’s oil and gas sector, restoring diplomatic relations with Israel, and severing ties with Cuba and Nicaragua.

Petro, who initially questioned the election result, has now said he respects the outcome, although he is expected to remain a strong opponent of the new government.

Protests against De la Espriella were held in several Colombian cities.

Shortly after the inauguration, the United States announced $1 billion in funding for Colombia to support the fight against drug trafficking and armed groups.