Colombia runoff yields narrow right‑wing win and record white‑vote protest

In the June 21 presidential runoff, right‑wing candidate Abelardo de la Espriella of the ABDL coalition received 49.66% of the vote, edging out the centre‑left Pacto Histórico candidate who obtained 48.70%. The margin of roughly 250,000 votes—under one percentage point—makes this the closest ballotage in Colombian history and the first time a president is elected without an absolute majority.

A record 426,848 Colombians cast blank ballots, surpassing the margin between the two contenders. Experts say the surge in blank votes reflects deep distrust, polarization and dissatisfaction with traditional parties, citing corruption and a perceived loss of legitimacy in institutions. The phenomenon is viewed as a warning sign for the incoming administration and Congress as they seek to restore confidence in the political system.