Supporters gathered in Bogota, Colombia, cheering at a rally for presidential candidate Abelardo De La Espriella of the Defenders of the Motherland movement. Known for his combative style, De La Espriella is a criminal lawyer who displays wealth and machismo. He stars in his own music videos and advocates for a tough approach to crime.

De La Espriella presents himself as a populist outsider, without political party affiliations or previous government roles. He claims this is beneficial. ‘I’m not a politician,’ he stated at a rally in Piedecuesta. ‘Politicians break promises. Entrepreneurs keep their word.’ He proposes a rightward shift after President Gustavo Petro’s left-wing rule. With guerrilla violence, kidnappings, and extortion rising, he plans to end peace talks with rebels, initiate military offensives, and construct 10 mega-prisons.

Businesswoman Belkis Serrano compares De La Espriella to El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, highlighting De La Espriella’s close resemblance and his authoritarian stance. A victory would continue a regional shift to the right, joining nations like Argentina and Bolivia with similar governance. Right-wing candidates in Peru and Brazil may also succeed in upcoming elections.

De La Espriella, 47, gained notoriety through legal representation of controversial clients, including Alex Saab, tied to Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro and extradited to the U.S. for money laundering. De La Espriella’s flamboyant lifestyle, including a luxury brand named De La Espriella Style and his own music videos, resonates with many Colombians. Despite this, his off-color remarks and disdain for the press alienate some voters. Sergio Guzmán from Colombia Risk Analysis notes these flaws could impact his campaign.

Meanwhile, De La Espriella’s primary rival, Iván Cepeda, a left-wing senator and Petro’s protégé, contrasts sharply with him. Cepeda, known for advocacy for human rights and peace, continues Petro’s policies but faces criticism for their effectiveness. Under Petro’s Total Peace program, armed groups grew, casting doubts on Cepeda’s approach.

As Colombia prepares for the election, De La Espriella vies for a spot in the runoff, potentially against Cepeda. Another contender, Senator Paloma Valencia, seeks to become the first female president. She criticizes De La Espriella’s tough persona, adding further intrigue to the electoral race.