Today, August 17, 2024, an alarming attack by state forces has been recorded in the La Gorgona area of the Guaviare department, constituting a serious violation of the ceasefire and a disregard for the lives of the civilian population. Units of the Colombian army, police, and air force have carried out operations in this region, deploying from helicopters onto private land without proper authorization, causing not only destruction of community infrastructure, such as the demolition of a vital bridge for the mobility of residents but also injuries to several civilians.
This situation is a clear example of how certain political sectors and law enforcement agencies seek to destabilize the peace process achieved between the FARC-EP and the government of Gustavo Petro. Through unjustified operations and a misleading media campaign, these actors attempt to undermine the tranquility that the ceasefire has brought, fearing that truth and justice will be established in a country that has endured too many years of conflict.
The lack of an effective Monitoring, Verification, and Oversight Mechanism (MVMV), which allows citizens to actively participate in the follow-up of peace agreements, is evident. The civilian population deserves to be heard and protected, and it is urgent that this mechanism is fully and effectively implemented in all its instances.
We call upon the national and international community, human rights organizations, and the active forces of Colombia and the world to speak out against these abuses and to stand in solidarity with the affected communities. The countries guaranteeing and accompanying the peace processes must act promptly and decisively in the face of this critical situation.
The struggle for peace with social and environmental justice is a duty for all. We demand the immediate and effective establishment of the MVMV, with the active participation of civil society, so that such regrettable events as the one we denounce today never happen again. No to the attack on the civilian population! Yes to peace with justice!