A lively atmosphere filled the air as supporters actively cheered during a campaign rally for presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella of the Defenders of the Motherland movement in Bogota, Colombia, on May 20, 2026. De la Espriella, known as a combative criminal lawyer, portrays an image of wealth and machismo, appearing in his own music videos and proposing a harsh crackdown on crime. Rising in the polls, he identifies as a populist outsider, free from political party ties and elective office experience—a quality he views as advantageous.
Campaign Promises and Political Stance
De la Espriella offers a stark political shift to the right, contrasting the four years of left-wing rule under President Gustavo Petro who is constitutionally barred from reelection. Amid increasing guerrilla violence and crime, De la Espriella intends to halt peace talks with rebel groups, initiate a military offensive, and build ten “mega-prisons.” At a campaign rally in Piedecuesta, he asserted, “I’m not a politician. Politicians never keep their promises. But we entrepreneurs are true to our word.”
“We need a Bukele so things change here in Colombia,” said Belkis Serrano, who attended the rally. She compared De la Espriella to Nayib Bukele, El Salvador’s president known for his authoritarian government.
Public Perception
De la Espriella, often called “the devil’s advocate,” has gained fame and fortune through his legal work with controversial clients. His lavish lifestyle includes owning a Rolls Royce, flying on a private jet, and showcasing his fashion brand, De La Espriella Style. Despite this showy persona, many average Colombians view him as an embodiment of upward mobility. However, his outlandish behavior, such as insulting journalists and making off-color remarks, detracts some potential supporters.
Election Rivals and Polling
Iván Cepeda, the leading candidate in most polls, presents a contrasting image. A left-wing senator and an advocate for human rights and peace, Cepeda promises to continue policies initiated by the Petro administration. These include increasing wages and opening government roles for indigenous and Afro-Colombians. Yet, flaws in the Total Peace policy have been a concern, as criminal groups expanded due to failed ceasefires.
De la Espriella, predicted to advance to a runoff election, faces competition not just from Cepeda but also from other candidates like right-wing Senator Paloma Valencia. She aims to become Colombia’s first female president, questioning De la Espriella’s bravado while offering herself as a more mainstream conservative choice.
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