Abelardo De La Espriella plans unconventional inauguration and early cabinet meetings

President‑elect Abelardo De La Espriella is preparing an atypical transfer of power. He will take his oath in a military garrison in the south of the country, while also establishing a presidential office in Barranquilla’s former army brigade, describing the move as a tribute to the armed forces. The decision sparked debate, with senators María José Pizarro warning of unnecessary costs and María Fernanda Cabal defending regional presence.

The incoming administration convened its second council of ministers in Barranquilla, outlining a “government prepared to act from day one” and setting priorities on security, legislation, and the transition process. Regional leaders in Huila and Santander were toured, with De La Espriella pledging infrastructure projects and a rapid‑deployment force. He also appointed fashion designer Silvia Tcherassi as honorary ambassador of Colombian fashion and named former congresswoman Paola Holguín as minister of Culture, emphasizing cultural identity as a pillar of his agenda. The president‑elect’s team signals a swift, decentralized start to the new government.