Colombia Ex-Guerrillas Face Uncertainty Under New Hardline President 2026

In a dramatic turn, Colombia ex-guerrillas who laid down arms under the previous government's 'total peace' plan now face an uncertain future under new hardline President Abelardo de la Espriella. The 99 former fighters, who disarmed just days before the presidential runoff, are now in limbo as the new administration shifts to a policy of airstrikes and criminalization. This article explores their plight and the broader implications for peace in Colombia.

The Disarmament Under 'Total Peace'

In mid-June, 99 guerrilla fighters were flown by helicopter to a rural settlement in southern Colombia, where they surrendered rifles, pistols, machine guns, and grenade launchers. They also burned their tactical vests and camouflage uniforms in a bonfire, symbolizing a new life away from a conflict that has claimed nearly half a million lives over six decades.

This act was a cornerstone of former President Gustavo Petro's 'total peace' plan, which aimed to negotiate with and disarm all of Colombia's criminal groups, estimated to have nearly 30,000 members. However, only this small group actually disarmed, doing so just before the election that brought de la Espriella to power.

The New Hardline Stance

President de la Espriella, a far-right millionaire lawyer, campaigned on ending 'total peace' and returning to a strategy of jailing or killing criminals. Within weeks of taking office, his government has begun airstrikes against criminal groups, raising fears for the safety and legal status of the disarmed ex-guerrillas.

Natalia Bríñez, 29, one of 13 women in the group, expressed their anxiety: “We’re in limbo.” The group does not know if they will be re-targeted, imprisoned, or left without protection.

Impact on Peace and Security

The shift in policy could have significant consequences for Colombia's peace efforts. While hardline approaches may reduce some criminal activity, they risk reigniting conflict and undermining trust in the government's commitment to peaceful reintegration.

Key Takeaways

• Only 99 out of 30,000 armed members disarmed, a minimal success for 'total peace'.
• The new president's hardline policies may endanger the disarmed ex-guerrillas.
• Colombia's peace process faces a critical juncture with potential for renewed violence.

Future Outlook

The 99 ex-guerrillas are now in a precarious position, awaiting clarity on their legal status and safety. The international community watches closely, as Colombia's approach could set a precedent for conflict resolution in the region.

For the ex-guerrillas, the dream of a peaceful life is overshadowed by fear. Their fate will depend on the new government's policies and whether they can find a path to reintegration despite the hardline rhetoric.

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