Right-Wing Candidate Wins Colombian Presidential Election with Trump’s Backing

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, Mehr News Agency reported, citing Al Jazeera, that news outlets have stated Abelardo de las Perias, the right-wing candidate for the Colombian presidency who received support from U.S. President Donald Trump, has won the second round of the presidential elections by a slim margin.

During his campaign rallies, de las Perias claimed he would combat drug cartels and armed groups.

After more than 99 percent of the votes were counted, de las Perias secured approximately 50 percent of the votes. His rival, leftist Senator Ivan Cepeda, garnered close to 49 percent of the ballots.

The leftist senator had previously announced that if elected, he would continue the policies of current Colombian President Gustavo Petro.

De las Perias, who also holds American citizenship, has not previously held any political office. He also stated that Trump congratulated him on his victory.

Prior to the final results being announced, Petro had indicated that he would contest the outcomes.