Colombia’s presidential race is heading for a high-stakes runoff after right-wing outsider Abelardo De La Espriella emerged from the first round narrowly ahead of leftist Ivan Cepeda, according to results released by the country’s national registry office, as Mr Cepeda and his allies said they would withhold judgment until the count is formally confirmed.
With security, the economy and competing populist agendas dominating the campaign, the registry data showed the two front-runners separated by less than two percentage points.
Lawyer De La Espriella won 43.7% of the vote, while Mr Cepeda, a veteran senator and activist, took just under 41%, the figures showed — a gap of nearly 668,000 votes.
Mr De La Espriella has never held elected office, but his political style and proposals have prompted comparisons with El Salvador President Nayib Bukele.
Presenting himself as a newcomer unburdened by traditional politics, the 47-year-old has pledged a hardline campaign against illegal armed groups, the construction of 10 megaprisons and anti-poverty measures centred on improved education, healthcare and housing for the poorest Colombians.
Supporters of Colombia’s presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella celebrated the initial result Mr Cepeda, 63, entered election day as the polling leader, though surveys had signalled a far tighter battle in a second round once right-leaning and centrist voters consolidate behind a smaller field.
Turnout levels could also shape the final sprint.
With fewer than six in 10 voters participating, both campaigns may see an opening to expand their support before the runoff on 21 June.
About 58% of Colombia’s 41 million eligible voters cast ballots, the....
