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Neoliberal's election victory sparks fears for the future of Colombia's fragile peace

NEOLIBERAL candidate Ivan Duque has been elected president of Colombia raising fears over the future of the country’s fragile peace process.

In a closely fought contest Mr Duque won 54 per cent of the vote to beat former left-wing guerilla Gustavo Petros who conceded defeat late on Sunday night.

Colombia's President Elect Ivan Duque speaks to supporters after his victory in the presidential runoff election in Bogota, Colombia, last night
Colombia's President Elect Ivan Duque speaks to supporters after his victory in the presidential runoff election in Bogota, Colombia, last night

"With humility and honour, I tell the Colombian people that I will give all my energies to unite our country. No more divisions. I will not govern with hatred," Mr Duque pledged in his victory speech.

Mr Duque opposes the peace deal signed in 2016 which saw Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) guerillas lay down their weapons and enter electoral politics with guaranteed seats in parliament.

Mr Duque’s victory could scupper ongoing peace talks with the National Liberation Army (ELN) which agreed a ceasefire during the election period.

Mr Petros, who stood on a platform promising a more equal society with free education and healthcare for all, said his result was something to build on for the left in Colombia.

"Eight million free Colombians taking a stand. There is no defeat here," he said.

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