Colombian jurists question Abelardo De la Espriella's presidential viability by American nationality

Published at: 11/06/2026 08:28 AM

A group of twenty former magistrates has warned of an alleged incompatibility between the American nationality of Abelardo De la Espriella and the exercise of the Presidency of Colombia. The released document argues that the commitments made by the candidate during his naturalization in the United States (USA) would contravene the constitutional duties of the head of state, especially in his role as supreme commander.

Telesur explained that the statement warns that the oath required by US law imposes a waiver of all loyalty to foreign states. In this regard, jurists point out that “a person who, in order to become naturalized in the United States, has taken the oath required by that country cannot be president of Colombia”, because this act would imply a subordination incompatible with national sovereignty.

The analysis differentiates the applicant's Italian citizenship, considered compatible because of their origin of descent, from the American one. Experts argue that the latter imposes obligations of fidelity that would generate irresolvable tensions in critical matters such as national defense and foreign relations, affecting the best interests of the Colombian State.

The controversy has gained relevance in the electoral race around 2026, leaving questions about the candidate's legal qualification for office. So far, the De la Espriell campaign has not clarified whether he would renounce his foreign citizenship, a requirement that experts consider necessary to clear up any conflict of national loyalty.

Mazo News Team