“The ELN negotiating delegation has not discussed a bilateral ceasefire proposal with the government of Gustavo Petro, so there is still no agreement on this issue,” the rebel group’s high command said on Tuesday. Colombian President Petro announced last weekend that his government had agreed a ceasefire with several of the South American country’s armed groups, including the ELN, until the end of June. In late November, the government resumed peace talks with the rebels after a break of nearly four years.
“We have made it clear several times that the ELN will only abide by agreements that are discussed and made at the negotiating table,” the left-wing guerrilla said in a statement. “A unilateral government decision cannot be accepted as an agreement.” The government’s announcement of the ceasefire is seen as a proposal that can be discussed in the next round of negotiations.
The Marxist-Leninist National Liberation Army (ELN) has about 5,000 fighters. The organization was initially based heavily on the Cuban model of socialism, later many clergymen, influenced by liberation theology, joined the group. It carries out attacks and hostage taking, especially in eastern Colombia.
For 52 years, Colombia suffered from a civil war between left-wing rebels, right-wing paramilitaries and the army. 220,000 people died and millions were displaced. Although the security situation has improved since the 2016 peace agreement between the government and the largest rebel group FARC, parts of the South American country are still controlled by illegal groups.
(SDA)