Even in an era of angry political outsiders, Colombia’s Abelardo de la Espriella is an unconventional choice for president. Like Donald Trump, one of his role models, the presidency will be his first public office. A multi-millionaire former criminal lawyer who revels in the nickname “El Tigre”, de la Espriella campaigned with the sort of brash rightwing populism that is spreading across Latin America.
Often photographed giving a military salute, he has in recent days lambasted journalists and threatened to “disembowel” the leftwing opposition if it blocks his agenda. His lifestyle brand “De La Espriella Style” offers supporters a bust of a tiger in Colombia’s national colours — a symbol of “determination, leadership and dedication to the homeland” — for almost £900.
The far-right de la Espriella does not have the backing of a major party and spent much of the run-up to last Sunday’s election trashing the country’s political elite. In an election with no debates and little policy discussion, he has demonstrated mastery of Trumpian politics — using social media to mobilise resentment, demonise opponents and deliver an emotional critique of political reality, especially about crime and violence.