Colombia's President-elect to be sworn in at military base
Colombia's President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella intends to hold his swearing-in ceremony at a military base, defying the outgoing president's orders and standard legal procedures. The move has sparked political tension as the incoming leader seeks to emphasize his security-focused platform.
Why it matters
The dispute highlights significant political polarization and institutional friction during a presidential transition in Colombia.
Colombia's right-wing President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella said on Monday (July 13, 2026) he would be sworn in at a military facility in the country's south, despite opposition from outgoing leader Gustavo Petro.
Mr. Petro ordered on Sunday (July 12, 2026) that "no military establishment be used" for the August 7 swearing-in. The law stipulates that the ceremony must be held before Congress in Bogota.
Mr. De la Espriella said on social media he would be sworn in "at a military garrison in the south of the country to pay a solemn tribute to the heroes of the homeland and to the military personnel who protect democracy, freedom, and institutional stability."
Lacking a majority, the President-elect has asked the new Congress, which is set to convene on July 20, to allow the ceremony to be held on a military base.
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