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Colombia’s Inauguration Will Be Held in Cali as Security Preparations Intensify

The choice underscores the president-elect’s security-first stance as authorities prepare a layered protection plan for visiting foreign leaders.

Overview

  • The Chamber and Senate approved holding the joint congressional session for Abelardo de la Espriella’s oath at Arena USC in Cali on August 7, a decision finalized in votes this week.
  • Local and national security forces are mounting a multi-ring protection operation that includes aerial surveillance, anti-drone systems, checkpoints on main access routes and special measures for international delegations.
  • De la Espriella issued a short ultimatum to armed groups operating in Cundinamarca to surrender or face military action, framing his incoming administration as rejecting negotiated truces.
  • The president-elect has announced early agency appointments and begun consultations with the World Bank, IMF and CAF to assess financing for infrastructure projects and other priorities.
  • Separately, a Bogotá court handed Carlos Caicedo a first-instance sentence of nine years and nine months for contracting irregularities but the ruling can be appealed and no arrest will follow until the decision is final.