Ex-Guerrillas Urge New Colombian Government to Uphold Peace Process

Ninety-nine demobilized combatants from the Colombian guerrilla group Comandos de la Frontera (CDF) have issued a public appeal to the new government, urging it to respect the nation's ongoing peace process. The former fighters, who laid down their arms in June, are seeking assurances for their continued reintegration into civilian life.

Currently residing in a Temporary Training and Location Zone (ZOCIUT) in the southern Putumayo province, these ex-combatants harbor fears of potential arrest or attacks. This anxiety stems from the new administration's stated intention to wage a "total war" against armed groups and dismantle the peace initiatives established under the previous president, Gustavo Petro.

The demobilization, which occurred on June 18 after over a year of negotiations, saw 99 fighters surrender their weapons. In the weeks following, they have established a compound within the ZOCIUT, creating living quarters, a dining hall, and even a gym. The ex-combatants are receiving education, psychological support, and daily meals.

José Villa, a 39-year-old who spent eight years with the CDF after leaving his farming life, described the surrender process as "distressing," admitting, "You never know if the government is setting a trap." Despite these fears, Villa and his comrades surrendered their weapons because they believe in the peace process. "We want to contribute to peace... so we took the first step to show the Colombian government that yes, we are committed to peace," he explained.

In a letter addressed to President Abelardo de la Espriella, the ex-combatants highlighted their commitment through concrete actions: demobilization, surrender of arms and equipment, and a decisive step toward legality. This plea comes as de la Espriella's presidential campaign promised a firm crackdown on insecurity, including a total war against guerrilla groups and the termination of Petro's 'Total Peace' policy, which involved negotiations with armed criminal organizations.