The competent authorities of Popayán and Cauca cannot remain indifferent to the serious crisis of violence that is shaking the region.
The recent intensification of armed confrontations and acts of terrorism have transformed Cauca into the epicenter of the armed conflict in Colombia, with devastating consequences for the civilian population.
Camilo González, chief negotiator of the national government in the peace talks with the dissidents of the FARC Central General Staff, has been emphatic in pointing out that the violence has drastically changed the panorama of the negotiations. According to González, “we came from a situation in March with nine serious incidents in Cauca, compared to 27 at the national level. For April and May, the number of situations in Cauca shot up to 50, while at the national level 75 were recorded. , which indicates that the region concentrates most of the armed confrontations and most serious terror situations in the country.”
This situation has led to the suspension of peace talks with certain dissident blocs. González declared that “this panorama of brutal attacks, such as those that occurred in Morales, Los Robles and the armed confrontations in Toribio, has darkened the entire panorama and has suspended the dialogues.”
It is imperative that local and national authorities respond firmly and effectively to this crisis. The Cauca community cannot continue waiting for answers while violence continues to devastate their lives. The President of the Republic, Gustavo Petro, has stated that the peace talks are at risk due to these violent incidents. In a forceful message, he warned that there will be no talks as long as criminal structures do not abandon illicit economies and violent activities associated with drug trafficking.
Furthermore, the president stressed that the military offensives against the EMC will continue, ordering the National Army to neutralize dissidents in Cauca and Valle del Cauca. “The subjugation exercised by the EMC in Cauca is only to maintain their greed. Their achievements are the death of civilians,” said Petro.
The national government must assume its responsibility and take immediate measures to protect the population of Cauca. Inaction is not an option. The authorities must intensify security operations, strengthen the presence of the State in the affected areas and guarantee that those responsible for these violent acts are brought to justice.
A comprehensive approach is necessary that not only includes military action, but also the social and economic development of the region, the protection of human rights and care for victims of the conflict. The Cauca community deserves to live in peace and with dignity.
The lives of hundreds of people are at stake. The time to act is now.
