Nationalist lawyer Abelardo De La Espriella has been elected president of Colombia, according to preliminary election results released on Sunday, signaling a significant shift in the country’s political direction.

Known to supporters as “The Tiger,” De La Espriella campaigned on promises to restore security, revive economic growth and take a tougher stance against organized crime and armed groups operating across the country.

The president-elect built momentum throughout the year with a hardline law-and-order message that resonated with voters concerned about rising insecurity, drug trafficking and economic challenges.

De La Espriella first emerged as the frontrunner after winning the first round of voting in late May with 43.7 percent of the vote. In Sunday’s runoff election, he narrowly defeated left-wing senator Ivan Cepeda, securing 49.66 percent of the vote compared with Cepeda’s 48.7 percent, according to the national registrar’s preliminary count.

Throughout the campaign, De La Espriella sharply criticized outgoing President Gustavo Petro, blaming his administration for the country’s economic difficulties and deteriorating security situation.

His platform included plans to reduce the size of government by 40 percent, expand the country’s tax base and abandon ongoing peace negotiations with armed groups in favor of a stronger military response.

On economic policy, De La Espriella has pledged to boost Colombia’s energy sector by restarting oil exploration projects and permitting hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, with the goal of nearly doubling national oil production to approximately 1.3 million barrels per day.

Supporters argue that his proposals will strengthen economic growth, attract investment and improve public security. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the environmental impact of expanded oil production and the potential consequences of ending peace initiatives.

The election result marks a major political turning point for Colombia and sets the stage for a new administration focused on security, economic liberalization and a more confrontational approach toward armed groups.

De La Espriella is expected to take office later this year as the country faces ongoing challenges related to crime, economic performance and social stability.