Uncertainty for Former Colombian Guerrillas After Disarmament Amid Political Shift > 월드뉴스

In mid-June, 99 guerrilla fighters were transported by helicopter to a small settlement in southern Colombia, where they disarmed and handed over their weapons, including rifles, pistols, machine guns, and grenade launchers, to government officials. This event marked the culmination of former President Gustavo Petro’s “total peace” initiative, which aimed to negotiate with and disarm Colombia’s criminal groups, estimated to number around 30,000 members. However, the disarmament of this group occurred just three days before the presidential runoff, which was won by far-right candidate Abelardo de la Espriella. He campaigned on a platform to end the “total peace” strategy, advocating for a return to punitive measures against criminals.

Weeks after the inauguration of the new president, the former guerrillas find themselves in a precarious situation. Natalia Bríñez, one of the group members, expressed their uncertainty, stating, “We’re in limbo.” The group is currently residing in a temporary location zone (ZUT), where they are monitored and unable to leave, as they attempt to transition to civilian life. The government provides them with meals and housing, but they have no clarity on their future.

De la Espriella has indicated his administration will not pursue further peace negotiations and has not addressed the fate of the group at the ZUT. Although any arrest warrants against them are currently suspended until December 25, when Petro’s decree expires, the new president has the authority to revoke this at any time. Armando Novoa, a former government official involved in the peace negotiations, warned that a military operation against the unarmed group could constitute a crime against humanity.