Santiago Vanegas

Abelardo de la Espriella’s inauguration in Cali departed from Colombian tradition and offered three signals about his government. A prominent multi-faith ceremony suggested that Christianity and closer ties with Israel will play a larger role, prompting criticism that the event challenged Colombia’s secular constitutional character. His decision to deliver the inaugural speech at a military base, coupled with calls for an uncompromising campaign against narcoterrorism and criminal groups, emphasized a hard-line security policy. The appearance of Luis Felipe Yagüé, a 74-year-old cookware seller who became a symbol of popular support, highlighted the government’s planned focus on small entrepreneurs and social programs.

President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella plans to govern from alternate presidential offices in Medellín, Cali and Barranquilla, beginning with an inauguration in Cali rather than Bogotá. He says the move will combat Colombia’s long-standing “Bogocentrism,” bring power closer to the regions and potentially make Barranquilla an alternate capital. Supporters in local governments expect easier coordination on regional projects, but experts argue that genuine decentralization requires transferring resources and authority, not simply relocating offices. Former officials also warn that operating across four cities could create major logistical, security and financial challenges, particularly if the Casa de Nariño is converted into a museum and the Palace of San Carlos becomes the Bogotá headquarters.

Around 60,000 people reportedly crossed from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta within 24 hours, most by swimming or climbing fences, creating a humanitarian and administrative crisis in the city. Most later returned voluntarily, but at least 57 people died attempting the crossing, while those who remained faced shortages of food, shelter and medical capacity. Migrants described fear, separation from family and desperation for better economic prospects in Europe. Spain deployed military and police forces and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez blamed human-trafficking networks, while Moroccan authorities tightened security and used water cannons to stop further crossings. The episode also intensified public anger in Morocco over unemployment, economic conditions, living costs and the government's response.

Nearly 2,000 people have been confirmed dead and more than 10,000 injured after twin earthquakes devastated Venezuela, with tens of thousands still missing and at least 1.8 million in need of humanitarian assistance. Authorities and international organizations warn that the real death toll is likely far higher, while survivors face overwhelmed medical services, limited shelter capacity, and disrupted water and electricity supply. Damage assessments report hundreds of collapsed or severely affected buildings, especially in La Guaira, and nearly 700 aftershocks continue to hinder recovery efforts. Experts caution that risks persist as the country confronts long-term humanitarian and structural impacts.