Electoral authorities declare right-wing candidate winner of Colombia presidential runoff

Electoral authorities declared the right-wing candidate the winner of Colombia's presidential runoff election on Wednesday. The candidate, a 47-year-old businessman and lawyer, defeated the progressive opponent by one percentage point, a margin of more than 251,000 votes.

The winner's business interests include a clothing line, wine and rum brands, and a restaurant. He received an endorsement from President Trump despite having never previously run for office.

Election results and reactions Authorities published nearly all vote totals hours after polls closed on Sunday. The progressive candidate did not accept the initial results and said a recount would be needed before acceptance. Officials completed the recount before declaring the winner.

The progressive candidate later conceded and accepted a Senate seat reserved for the runner-up. In a national address, the candidate said the role of a democratic, vigilant, and constructive opposition would be assumed with serenity and resolve.

Policy positions and background The winner campaigned on a heavy-handed approach to violent crime, including plans to build ten maximum-security prisons modeled on facilities in El Salvador. The candidate also proposed resuming aerial fumigation of coca fields and intercepting aircraft and boats carrying drugs.

The incoming president will begin a four-year term on August 7. The campaign stated the new government will work for national unity and guarantee the right to political opposition and peaceful protest within constitutional and legal frameworks. The winner has announced plans to assemble a cabinet and to join Colombia to a regional coalition aimed at addressing criminal groups.