Fernando Vergara/Pool via REUTERS Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella speaks in Barranquilla, Colombia, September 8, 2026. He is wearing a navy suit and behind him a US and a Colombian flag can be seen. He is holding his arms up in the air as he gestures. Fernando Vergara/Pool via REUTERSFernando Vergara/Pool via REUTERS
Abelardo de la Espriella won the presidential election in June on a promise to be tough on crime
Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has signed a decree lifting a decade-long restriction on the public carrying of legally owned firearms, fulfilling a campaign promise to adopt a tougher approach to crime.
According to the BBC on Wednesday, under the new decree, Colombians who already hold valid permits to carry registered firearms will be able to take their weapons outside their homes without seeking additional authorisation.
De la Espriella defended the measure, saying law-abiding citizens should not be left unable to defend themselves while criminals remain armed.
