Designated Interior Minister Rodrigo Lara Restrepo stated that Abelardo De La Espriella’s government will prevent the radical left from moving its fight to the streets.
Rodrigo Lara Restrepo, from Huila, was named Interior Minister by president-elect Abelardo De La Espriella. In an interview published on July 12, 2026, he warned that the government will not allow road blockades or street chaos starting August 7.
The official said his priorities include securing a stable congressional majority, coordinating state action across the territory, and helping mayors fight insecurity. He expressed support for Alfredo Deluque as Senate president and Daniel Briceño as Chamber of Representatives president.
Lara Restrepo criticized Gustavo Petro and Iván Cepeda for rejecting the election results. He confirmed that De La Espriella will visit Neiva on July 17 to meet governor Rodrigo Villalba Mosquera and local mayors.
