1999
January
3: The Colombian press revealed that an
official of the US State Department held an informal meeting with Raúl Reyes.
Reyes real name is Luis Edgar Devia. He is a member of the Farc secretariat, the
international coordinator and one of Farc top negotiators. The other two
negotiators are
Fabián Ramírez and Joaquín Gómez. The meeting took place in Costa Rica,
December 14 and 15, 1998, at Alvaro Leyva´s residence. From the US side, Peter
Romero´s (State Dept. Sub-secretary for LA Affairs) assistant, Phil Chicola,
attended the meeting. The Colombian government was notified but did not attend. Tirofijo confirmed his presence in
January 7 installation of the dialogues. The top three Farc delegates will also attend, Raúl Reyes, Joaquín Gómez and Fabián Ramírez.
January
4: New information related to the Farc-US
meeting. In this opportunity it is said that the Colombian government
participated in it also, as declared by Victor G. Ricardo. The main topic of
discussion was illicit crop eradication. The US State Department Spokesperson,
James Rubin, minimized the event and said that only a low-level official, Phil
Chicola, attended the meeting. Pastrana named his delegates to the dialogues:
1. Fabio Valencia Cossio- Congress
President, conservative. He comes from
Medellín, Antioquia, where Pastrana got a majority of the votes in the
presidential elections.
2. Nicanor Restrepo- president of the
"Sindicato Antioqueño" one of the biggest Colombian industrial groups
also from Antioquia. This group supported him greatly during the campaign.
Nicanor is a respected businessman with credibility and past experiences in this
type of situations. Restrepo was Antioquia´s governor between 1983 and 84,
facilitated dialogues between the government and the M-19 during President
Gaviria administration
3. Rodolfo Espinosa Meola- the Governor of
Atlántico
(one Department- political-regional organization entity of Colombia to the north
of Bogotá in the Caribbean Coast). He has supported Pastrana for many years.
4. María Emma Mejía, liberal, Minister of Foreign Affairs during the last two years of Samper administration, former candidate to the vice-presidency with Horacio Serpa, Pastrana´s rival, and outstanding member of the Liberal Party Directive Board.
Patrana´s choice shows a political decision, searching for a national balance and consensus, incorporating all major forces. Each one has credibility in his/her own constituency and is accepted. That will facilitate Pastrana´s "selling-out" of the peace process to a very critical Colombian society.
January 6: Meeting in Palacio de Nariño (The Colombian "White House") between President Pastrana, Victor G. Ricardo and the negotiators. Pastrana and Ricardo travelled to San Vicente del Caguán for meetings with Farc negotiators.
January
7: Dialogue installation by President
Pastrana and Farc negotiators in San Vicente del Caguán. Tirofijo and Mono
Jojoy were in the area but not present during the ceremony. President
Pastrana recognized political status to Farc, admitted that only in peace
there could be social justice and reiterated that the government did not come
with a fixed agenda, that it was open to search for compromises to set a common
path to follow from now on. Explained that the absence of Tirofijo did not mean
the lack of will to start the dialogues.
Meeting logistics: Presidential Security Personnel
-70 bodyguards- arrived in the Hercules military plane at the Batallón
Cazadores- known as the governmental Site-. However, the general security
responsibility was entirely in the hands of the Farc, which had more than
2000 men for this purpose. Farc established alcohol prohibition in the area
during the meeting to avoid trouble and restricted unauthorized vehicle
circulation during this week. The meeting took place in San Vicente Central
Square between the parties’ concerned, international guests and around 3500
peasants. Farc arranged transportation, catering and first aid committees for the guests.
Some cultural activities, such as plays, were programmed to entertain the guests. Also, around
2500 telephone lines were put into service at the Batallón Cazadores and
Ciudadela Don Bosco (press h.q.) for the press and officials. The press
also had the FlyAway service.
Meeting protocol: 1. National Anthem. 2. Farc´s
speech read by Joaquín Gómez one of the negotiators. 3. Victor G. Ricardo read the government-Farc joint communiqué. 4.
President Pastrana´s statement 5. Installation of dialogues by
President Pastrana. Later on negotiators made some statements. From then on,
cultural and music events with Ivan y sus Bam Bam and Marbelle (two popular
Colombian singers). Guests (ca. 700 nationals and foreigners) stayed at Batallón
Cazadores.
Special
Guests: Gabriel García Márquez, Ambassadors in
Colombia, including US Ambassador Curtis Kamman, Nicaraguan Daniel Ortega,
personal representatives of regional governments, such as Venezuela, Mexico and
Central American nations, Colombian political elite, artists and industrial
community representatives.
January 8: Daniel Ortega, former Nicaraguan President, met with Tirofijo. According with their conversation, there was apparently a paramilitary threat to Tirofijo life if he showed up January 7th. Tirofijo said that in order to keep the process moving he refrained from participating. Some analysts affirmed that he did not participate because he wants to maintain his myth and did not want to be exposed. Since he has not been in great events for 40 years, he feels unease in events such as this one. These analysts said that he did not want to show any kind of weakness from the outset. The government confirmed having been informed by Farc about the paramilitary threats, although the area was entirely controlled by Farc forces.
January 9: first formal meeting between both
sides’ negotiators at La Machaca, two hours by car from San Vicente del
Caguán. Discussions on how to define the agenda. Main issues: methodology,
regularity and place of the meetings. A press communiqué will come out of every
meeting to prevent the press from distorting the events and progress, jeopardizing the peace talks.
January
10: ELN and Autodefensas forces said to be
interested in respecting the peace talks between Farc and the government. No
cease-fires until certain conditions are fulfilled. Paras and Elenos talked to
"humanize" their war while they search for dialogue mechanisms. Still
mistrust among the parties involved. In the long run, these forces should be
incorporated in the process to have a comprehensive peace agreement and not a
partial one. Farc, ELN and Autodefensas could join along as national conditions change
and a political reform is made to include all political forces.
The government has so far shown an open mind in this regard. All parties
interested on how the US is going to act, apart from the natural linkage of the
peace process with US eradication policies. ELN would be willing to have an
informal meeting with US authorities similar to Farc meeting in Costa Rica.
January
11: Second meeting in La Machaca. Main
topics: cease-fire, kidnapped release, illicit crop eradication, government
paramilitary dismantling. Pastrana presented its agenda called "Una Política
de Paz para el Cambio" (A Peace Policy for the Change) which includes
several issues: Human Rights compliance (freedom and life respect); Economic
reform (poverty eradication and social equity); Political reform (right to
minorities and to the opposition); Eradication (illicit crop alternatives and
social investment); Environment (natural resources protection); Justice and
Corruption (drug dealing eradication and corruption punishment); Agrarian reform
(new forms of land redistribution); Paramilitary (fight against private justice
by the State); International Support (external peace process verification and
development support); Agreements (peace agreement with the guerrilla would be
ratified by the People). Next meetings January 24 and 25 in San Vicente del Caguán.
The purpose is to come up with a unified agenda. Farc officially presented its
Negotiating Platform (see: October 16, 98). In the joint press communiqué both
parties agreed to study the issues before the next round.
January
11: In an interview published by Semana (a
national weekly publication), Mono Jojoy indicated among other things that if
the Exchange Law would be a problem then, they (Farc) would have to "bring
some politicians" to persuade the Congress in their approach to the issue.
That meant that Farc would be ready and willing to kidnap politicians and
Members of Congress to make the Law pass. At the same time the nation is facing
a paramilitary offensive in four "Departamentos" that have killed more
than 100 people in 10 days.
January
13: Mono Jojoy declared that the
Demilitarized/détente zone should go until March 24, since Farc is counting the
3 months starting December 24. According to the government it should last until
February 7. Still another matter to discuss. Pastrana avoided commenting on
Jojoy threats to kidnap political leaders if the Exchange Law were not passed in
Congress, indicating hat Jojoy is not the Farc spokesperson. The government put
into operation the Anti-Paramilitary Squad to fight Castaño forces. Castaño
wants to be included in the Peace Talks, either in an integral process or
bilaterally with the government, provided all forces in conflict respect a
national cease-fire. This is one of the major issues that the government is
putting forward in talks with Farc.
January 13:
Apparently
some of the most contingent issues to be discussed in the coming weeks are:
Human Rights, Illicit Crop Alternatives, Environmental Protection, Agrarian
Reform, International Support, Justice Strengthening, Paramilitaries.
January
14: The Paramilitary (Autodefensas Unidas
de Colombia- AUC) are ready to sit with the government in parallel and
simultaneous peace talks. In a letter sent to Pastrana affirmed that the recent
military new offensive is the result of new guerrilla fronts being created
during the truce declared in December 1998. Pastrana invited all armed forces to
join the negotiation process. The government has not answer yet to the
Autodefensa´s proposal.
January 14: Pastrana 3 days visit to Cuba to meet with Fidel Castro. Hugo Chavez (Venezuelan president-elect) will join them on Sunday, January 17. Agenda: drug trafficking and Colombian Peace Talks. Fidel commented on a facilitating role and advised all sides to be very patient.
January 14: In February the Autodefensas led by Castaño, will have the "Asamblea Nacional por la Paz" (National Assembly for Peace). Pastrana said that all forces in conflict should take part in Peace Negotiations and declared that progress with the Autodefensas depended on progress with the Farc and ELN negotiations. Farc and ELN do not see with good eyes negotiations with the Autodefensas. For these groups, the Autodefensas should be dismantled by force since they have no political purpose, goals or status.
January 15: Farc is ready to create, when the time
comes, a political party "Movimiento Bolivariano para la Nueva
Colombia" (Bolivar Movement for the New Colombia). The coordinator is
Alfonso Cano (a Farc secretariat member). The idea is to be inclusive, to accept
a wide range of ideas and tendencies and to learn from the bad experiences of
the "Unión Patriótica" (UP-Patriotic Union) in the sense to have
political assurances from the State, to be open in their views (not to be
strictly identified with the Communist Party) and to be certain that the leaders
and activists would not be killed like the UP members in the beginning of the
1990´s. So far, little is known, since Farc wants to keep the secrecy to
prevent assassinations to their political leaders and future members of the
Movement.
January 16: Colombian government insisted on international participation in the process. Fidel Castro involvement to be discussed with Farc. Moreover, there are ideas to implement mechanisms used in El Salvador and Guatemala, such as the "Group of Friends", either within the UN or any other regional mechanism. Colombian guerrilla groups are not too fond of UN involvement.
January
18: The Exchange Law issue kept all parties concerned interested. It is one of the main issues for the
guerrilla and some suggest that its outcome could determine the continuation of
the peace process. Tirofijo gave an interview to "Semana" and
discussed this issue again. Some analysts considered the Exchange issue as an excuse to liberate
prisoners before walking away from the negotiating table.
Pastrana met yesterday in Havana with Fidel Castro and Hugo Chavez, two
countries in the region interested to cooperate in the dialogues. In Medellín, at the Itagüí Prison,
the Working Group on Peace was set. Francisco Galán (ELN), Eugenia Aguilar
(director of Prisons), Juan Gómez Martínez, Medellín Mayor and Felipe Tórres
(ELN, spokesman) participated. Agenda: 1. International Humanitarian Law, human
rights, impunity, justice, insurgency and conflict. 2. Natural Resources and
Energy Policy. 3. Democracy, State, Armed Forces and Corruption. 4. Economy and
Social Problems. 5. Culture and Identity, Nation, Region, Territorial
Distribution, Agrarian Problem and Drug Trafficking.
January
19: Victor G. Ricardo declared that neither
the government nor the Congress agreed with a permanent Exchange Law, since it meant
the continuation of the war. Farc insisted on apermanent
Exchange Law. For Antonio Navarro, former M-19 leader and Representative (Cámara
de Representantes), if the purpose is to have no more prisoners, then the war
should end. This Exchange issue should not be put as an obligation. According to
El Tiempo and La FM opinion poll published, 60,20% are against a permanent
Exchange Law, 29,18% are in favor and 10,62% do not answer.
January 20: Expected meeting to discuss the Exchange issue between Victor G. Ricardo and Tirofijo in Caquetania. According to the news (January 13), the Congress was to be represented as well as the General Prosecutor (Procurador). The meeting was canceled because of new demands from Farc Secretariat concerning the dismantling of paramilitary groups. Colombia was divided. Some interpreted this delay as an obstacle but not a real impasse. Others considered that Farc was not willing to negotiate and has not proved to the nation its commitment. The government proposed to reschedule the weekend meetings to the 26th.
January 21: Pastrana proposed through the government delegates in the coming meetings (this weekend) that all issues with Farc be discussed in the same scenario, that is to say to include the Exchange issue in the meetings scheduled to define the agenda. Pastrana reiterated that the fight against the paramilitary is a governmental conviction, which did not start as a result of the talks with the guerrilla. State Dept. Spokesman, Rubin, reiterated US support for the Colombian peace talks and the humanization of the conflict. Colombian society needs to learn how to be patient and to continue despite the many obstacles that will arise during the talks. In a TV interview given by Pastrana to Yamid Amat of Caracol, the President explained that his idea was to create, with the Farc consensus, a Group of Friends that could be used as a Facilitator during the periods that the dialogues could be stagnant. The countries would be chosen with the agreement of all sides.
January
23: Pastrana´s suggestion of taking the
dialogues out of Colombia was not well received by Farc. This group preferred to
keep the dialogue national, "facing the people". Pastrana´s proposal
had the intention to negotiate in a more peaceful scenario away from Colombian
media constant speculation. In other matter, ELN wants to meet Pastrana before
the National Convention. There is a possibility that a "Para"
representative be present in this Convention.
January 24 and
25: 2nd round of meetings
between Farc and Government negotiators in San Vicente del Caguán. The idea is
to continue defining the agenda. The dialogues continue to be
difficult. Farc asked the Government to take firm action against the
Paramilitary, to pass the Exchange Law, to investigate the Armed Forces and
to give an indefinite extension of the Demilitarized/détente zone. Farc decided
to return to the talks next April 20 to give the government enough time to
reflect and act upon their demands. Farc negotiators gave a list to the
government negotiators with names of military and police officers suspected to
have links with paramilitary groups.
January
30: The Armed Forces published a communiqué
denying any linkage with the Autodefensas or Organized Defense Groups. There was a new
problem related to this issue. A list containing the names of military
commanders under investigation for allegations of linkages with the Paras made
by the Attorney-General Office was disclosed. Victor G. Ricardo, in his own
defense, explained that he did not send the list to Farc in his letter dated
January 20 mentioning Pastrana´s policy towards the Paramilitary. Apparently, Farc
requested the list during the 2nd round of meetings letting the
government know that they did not have it. Difficult to disclose and know what
really happened.
January
31: El Espectador published an interview
with Tirofijo. He mentioned some of the issues of interest for his organization,
namely, the Paramilitary and Exchange issues and social and economic reforms. On
the first one, even though Farc recognized that Pastrana is not responsible for
the Paramilitary, he has to fight them. This include to search within the Armed Forces
for officials responsible of supporting paramilitary activities. According to
Tirofijo, the Paramilitary constitute an obstacle for peace. Moreover, Farc is totally
against the dialogues between the Paramilitary and the government and the possibility
of giving them political status. Concerning the kidnapping issue, Tirofijo
justified its practice indicating that it represented a mean to finance peace
since the economic elite finances the war against the guerrillas. About the
"pesca milagrosa" (miraculous fishing) practice, Tirofijo explained
that it was not intended to take people, it happened sometimes when people
suspected of supporting Paramilitary were discovered, but it was not the purpose.
Its purpose was rather to exercise power on national roads.
February 1: The government was ready to prolong the Demilitarized/détente zone (Despeje) beyond February 7, despite national criticism.
February
2: Generals
Fernando Tapias, Jorge Mora Rangel and Héctor Fabio Velasco and Admiral Sergio
Garcia visited the General Prosecutor, Jaime Bernal Cuéllar, to protest and ask
for an explanation for sending a secret document of his office to Farc
secretariat. The document contained the list of military officers under
investigation for alleged cooperation with the Paramilitary. According to article 33 of
the Anti-corruption Law, preliminary investigations cannot be made public. So
the military commanders claimed for their own rights, the same as any Colombian citizen.
February
3: On the list issue: Bernal Cuéllar
indicated to the Military commanders that he gave the list to Victor G. Ricardo
and not to Farc. Finally, with Pastrana´s "mediation" the issue was
solved and a joint communiqué (Military commanders and Peace Commissioner) was
presented to put and end to the misunderstanding. It was never proved that
Ricardo gave the list to Farc, although he apparently announced his intention of
sharing information with Farc. On the issue of Paras kidnapped IPC activists,
the International Committee of the Red Cross (CICR) started mediation efforts
to liberate the victims.
February
5: The government is doing joint
efforts (with Farc) on illicit crops eradication, while the peace talks are on
hold.
February 6: The government announced a 90 days extension, until May 5, of the Demilitarized/détente zone, as a motivation to Farc to resume talks before April 20, as they announced at the end of January. Colombia "concern" for Fujimori new frontier policies to prevent Farc and other guerrilla groups to use its territory for illicit and terrorist activities. Colombian media has given the issue extreme importance as if Peru was "declaring war".
February
8: Victor G. Ricardo to meet with ELN-COCE members- Pablo Beltrán, Antonio García and Milton Hernández.
The meeting would take place in Caracas, since President Chávez has become an
enthusiast of the Colombian Peace Talks. The main issues in the agenda with the
"Elenos" so far will be the National Convention, that is postponed (no
longer on Feb. 13) and the ELN demand for a Demilitarized/détente zone in North
Santander, its main zone of influence. Many tend to criticize the government for
giving too much to the guerrilla groups and not receiving anything in return.
Some talk of the "balkanization of Colombia" that will end up divided
in several territories governed by different authorities. If the
"demilitarized/détente zone"
was created for Farc, the ELN in order to start negotiations, thinks it deserves
the same kind of treatment. Pastrana is ready to meet with ELN leaders, but will
probably prevent situations such as the absence of Tirofijo from happening
again. ELN Central Commanders (COCE) are Nicolás Rodríguez
-"Gabino", Antonio García (second in command and military chief),
Pablo Beltrán (international spokesperson, lives in Germany), Milton Hernández
and Oscar Santos. Gabino replaced the Spaniard Priest Manuel Pérez on April 6,
1998 when he died, after 16 years in command of the Organization.
February
9: Talks in Caracas: ELN requested the
demilitarization of Tibú and San Calixto to begin the National Convention.
Pastrana could probably travel to Caracas the following Thursday to meet with the
ELN-COCE, and begin the Peace Talks with this Organization. The Paramilitary liberated
Claudia Tamayo and Olga Rodas, IPC activists. Jorge Salazar and Jairo Bedoya are
still "retained".
February
10: Nothing
came out after two days of talks in Caracas between Victor G. Ricardo and
ELN-COCE members. Not even the "civil society" National Convention
participants agreed with the creation of a demilitarized/détente zone to the ELN
in North Santander. Not only because of the ELN conditions of creating
"safety corridors" to move from different regions but also because the
National Convention is expected to be in session for several months. On the
extension of the "demilitarized/détente
zone" to Farc the General Prosecutor, indicated that it should have
been granted with an immediate resumption of the talks, but not the way it was done,
since the nation has so far no guarantees of Farc´s real intentions and
commitment to the peace talks. There will apparently be a "Political
Pact" among different fractions and the government to support
Pastrana´s efforts for peace. The goal is to make a State policy rather than a
Government policy on peace. With this Pact, Horacio Serpa (Liberal Party), Noemí
Sanín (Independent- 3rd in general presidential elections in 1998)
and the Conservative Party will give their support to President Pastrana.
February
13: Pastrana is searching for National
Unity in the issue of peace. He wanted to convene the Political Parties, the
Church, the Industrial Community and the Civil Society to discuss issues such as
human rights, paramilitary, corruption, illicit crop alternatives. These issues
were to be discussed with the guerrilla. Concerning the ELN, Victor G. Ricardo
is advancing on more talks with Antonio García (2nd in command) in
Caracas to determine if any formal negotiation process is possible. The ELN
insists on having a demilitarized zone in the south part of Bolívar
Department, specifically in Santa Rosa del Sur, Simití, San Pablo and Morales.
The government announced that no more such zones would be created.
National reconciliation will not mean a sacrifice to national unity, was stated
by the President. The government is offering instead the so-called "Santa
Ana Initiative" which means that in the eve of a meeting, during and few
hours later, in a specified place, a cease of hostilities could be declared and
respected to allow the talks to take place. This is very different from granting
an indefinite demilitarized zone. Probably the extension of such a zone to Farc
encouraged the ELN to such demands. According to some experts the ELN is not
militarily strong so its demands are not as "compulsive" as those made
by Farc. Others assessed that the government has already made mistakes with Farc,
so the ELN is paying the consequences.
February 14: Victor G. Ricardo and Antonio García met again in Caracas. Venezuela is offering its territory to make the National Convention possible, demanding the ELN to cease all attacks in the frontier. President Chávez of Venezuela threatened the guerrilla to receive military response to its incursion into Venezuelan territory.
February
15: The government proposed three
alternatives to make the ELN National Convention
possible in Colombia. They are: 1) Identify a place in Colombia and
commit to a cease-fire; 2) Identify a place in Colombia, allow police force
with a stop of all military operations; 3) Bilateral cease of military
operations, with the withdrawal of all forces in conflict from a place
established for the Convention. Only the population and the Convention
participants could be allowed. The ELN expressed its rejection to hold a
Convention in Colombia without a demilitarized zone. It would rather travel to a foreign
country. It could be another Mainz Meeting, with little
projection in the long term. On the issue of a "National Union Pact",
political parties and leaders have indicated that they could convene if there
are specific issues to discuss and not a mere "good intentions
manifestation" concerning the peace process. Noemí Sanín: "A
National Union Pact should have solid foundations and serious proposals. We are
not going for more frustrations". Horacio Serpa: "A Pact should be
encompassing, based on concrete foundations, on specific issues, that in the
view of the Liberal Party are positive towards a reconciliation process".
Omar Yepes (Conservative Party): "Since the negotiating issues have been
already presented, the Pact is a good idea and the nation should support the
government on his efforts towards Peace in Colombia." Jaime Caicedo
(Communist Party): "The National Union Pact should only discuss the issue
of peace".
February
17: "Gabino" or Nicolás Rodríguez
Bautista -ELN Chief Commander-, contemplated the possibility of cutting all contacts
with the government and wait until 2002 to talk with a new elected government.
This is a "force-threat" talk to persuade the government to comply
with ELN demands before any kind of talks. Victor G. Ricardo considered that the
government has not failed yet in its efforts to begin peace talks with the ELN.
Several countries have offered their territories in the event that the
government and the ELN do not reach an agreement on the National Convention.
They are: Spain, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Venezuela and Costa Rica. Puerto Rico
has also made an offer. Colombian Military Forces have also agreed to the
"Santa Ana" formula to enhance the possibilities of holding the
National Convention in Colombia. However, the ELN is not convinced yet.
February 18: A meeting to consolidate the National
Union Pact proposed by President Pastrana took place. Horacio Serpa,
Noemí Sanín, Presidents of the Chamber of Representatives and the Senate, the
industrial leaders, the unions, the Church and Political Parties Spokespersons
attended it. Participants requested a two-week period- with the exception of the
Conservative Party- to study the government proposal. Among the issues on the
table were: reconvene the "National Peace Council"; extend the
presidential powers to negotiate a peace agreement with the guerrillas; no
political status to the paramilitary; dismantling of Convivir (Cooperativas de
Vigilancia y Seguridad Privadas - Private Security and Vigilance Coop) foster a
judicial reform; transform the National Police Force into a civilian armed body
to defend human rights; preserve the national territorial unity, build an
inclusive peace agenda, meaning that different political, social and economic
sectors have a saying in the peace talks; give a broader understanding to the
concept of peace, meaning not only the "weapons silence"; armed
conflict humanization; international solidarity to cope with illicit drug
traffic; advance on alternative crops; preserve the environment; implement an
educational program oriented toward Peace; media accountability and
international participation in the Colombian Peace Process, based on mutual
respect.
February
19: New military confrontations between
the Colombian Armed Forces and Farc. IPC kidnapped activists released by Castaño´s
forces.
February
23: Noemí Sanín (on Saturday Feb. 20)
and Horacio Serpa (accompanied by senator Piedad Córdoba) meet separately with
Antonio García (ELN second in command) in Maracaibo, Venezuela. ELN wanted to
discuss its political agenda for eventual negotiations and issues discussed with
Victor G. Ricardo. Hugo Chávez, Venezuela President, insisted in offering
mediation in the Colombian Peace Process if both the government and the ELN
accepted. The Autodefensas could agree on a demilitarized zone for the ELN claiming that
it is a "dignifying" way out for this group. This group could be
claiming soon for a demilitarized zone for their own.
March: Colombian between war and peace. Guerrillas- Autodefensas and Military confrontations have been the rule lately. No peace dialogues this month. Farc continued the "pescas milagrosas" including the murder of three American citizens (March 7). With relation to the ELN, on March 10, the government denied any possibility of granting the ELN with a demilitarized/détente zone.
April
8: Victor G. Ricardo met with Farc members
to discuss the murder of the 3 Americans, among other issues not related
directly with the peace process since Farc is not willing to take up the
dialogue issue until the third week of April. Victor G. Ricardo traveled to Caquetania,
Caquetá with 17 members of Congress.
April 12: ELN kidnapped an Avianca airplane with
more than forty people on board.
April
16: Victor G. Ricardo and the Industrial
Associations Council (Consejo Gremial) met with Tirofijo, Mono Jojoy and Joaquín
Gómez in Caquetania. The agenda dealt with Farc´s real
commitment with the peace process, a stop to the "pescas milagrosas"
and kidnapping in all forms, private justice groups, corruption and social
inequalities.
April 20: Farc and government talks reconvened. During this meeting in La Machaca, Caquetá, Farc indicated that dialogues towards setting a negotiating agenda were still frozen and that this meeting had the purpose of receiving the government report on paramilitary actions and governmental measures to combat such activity, including cleansing of the military forces. On this issue the Minister of Defense and the Military commanders protested based on lack of credibility of Farc on this demands, since the military attacked were those who combat the most all guerrilla actions and since there is no evidence of linkage with the Paramilitary. This is a sensitive issue, since Farc is determined to make it one of the crucial points to go back to the dialogues. The government indicated that the demilitarized/détente zone would not be extended unless Farc showed clear standing and commitment regarding the peace dialogues. This demilitarized/détente zone runs until May 7.
April
21: Continuation of the meeting in La
Machaca. Farc continued conditioning the negotiations towards an agenda to the
government’s fight of the paramilitary groups. The government expressed that
without a formal agenda for peace negotiations the demilitarized/détente zone would not be extended. The government presented a draft for a common
agenda for negotiations.
April
22: Military commanders blamed Victor G.
Ricardo for their removal, arguing that he was just playing Farc´s cards.
Difficult relations between the government the military commanders right now due
to the lists given to Farc relating military officers with paramilitary groups.
The former argued that Farc´s allegations were not credible and that they would
only pay attention to institutional complains. A terrorist group, in their view,
has no authority whatsoever to make complains against the organization that
fights them the most. Another scenario of confrontation relates Farc with the
Church. Farc demanded the removal of the San Vicente del Caguán Catholic
representative, accusing him of preaching against the demilitarized/détente
zone and other guerrilla activities in the area. Farc considered him a
"representative" of the paramilitary. The Church has rejected such
allegations, defending the right to dissent and to freedom of expression, even
in guerrilla-controlled areas.
April
23: The search for a common agenda initiated,
given that Farc has already presented its points, dealing with the Political
Solution to the Armed Conflict; Military Doctrine and State Defense; Democratic
and local, regional and national participation; Development and Economic
Modernization with Social Justice; National Budget distribution (50% in social
welfare, 10% in scientific research); Agrarian Policy towards credit
democratization; Natural Resources Exploitation involving renegotiations of
contracts with Multinationals; Foreign Affairs; and National Production. In
essence both agendas have common grounds.
April
26: Farc and government agreed to meet to consolidate a common agenda for negotiations. The government had
declared that without this condition, the demilitarized/détente zone would not
be extended. Dialogues about the exchange of soldiers and "guerrilla
members" started again on a separate round of talks. Manuel Marulanda
“Tirofijo”, Victor G. Ricardo, the General Prosecutor and the Congress-rep.
are directly handling this issue.
April
28: Pastrana agreed to talk to the ELN
provided that the hostage liberation is done at once and entirely, not
gradually. On the exchange issue with Farc it is clear, apparently, that going
ahead with it would not mean giving a belligerent status to Farc, according to
experts views based on the Geneva Conventions. Political Parties leaders:
Horacio Serpa-Liberal, Omar Yepes-Conservative, Jaime Caicedo-Communist, Noemí
Sanín-Opción Vida, Fabio Valencia Cossio-Senate and Emilio Martínez-Representatives
Chamber Presidents and Victor G. Ricardo met with Tirofijo in Caquetania to
discuss three issues: how to combat the paramilitary; how to make the peace
process a State policy; how to involve the so-called civil society in the peace
process.
April 29 and
30: more talks on a common agenda. According to some (i.e. El Tiempo) about 80% of the common
agenda has come out of the meetings. Others (i.e. Semana) considered the meeting
between Tirofijo, Victor G. Ricardo and the political parties leaders as another
Pastrana´s
card to move the public opinion back into supporting the peace process, including
the time extension to Farc´s demilitarized regions. This issue will be
discussed in the next meeting - May 3- since the deadline is already May 7. Farc´s
unwillingness to negotiate and the apparent government weakness have created a
national very skeptic environment towards the peace process. That is why the
meetings with broader groups have helped the government winning of new support
to continue on this hard endeavor. At the same time, dialogues with ELN have not
prospered and the government insisted on the unconditional release of all
hostages taken on April 12 with the kidnapping of the Avianca airplane.
May
2: President Pastrana met with Tirofijo in
Caquetania to put pressure on Farc to commit on a common agenda. Pastrana needed
some kind of commitment from Farc to justify the time extension of the Caguán
zone, as it is known nowadays in Colombia, since the second extension is due May 7. There is a
strong public reaction towards keeping it considering the fact that Farc
continued with terrorists attacks all over the country. Moreover, Pastrana
declared few weeks ago that without a common agenda and Farc commitment, a time
extension would not even be considered. Pastrana is trying hard to keep the process
alive.
May
3: The first stage of the peace process is
reaching an end and both the government and Farc have to reach basic commitments
in order to pass on to the second one, starting May 7, which would involve formal
negotiations with a common agenda. Pastrana´s visit to Los Llanos del Yarí to
meet with Tirofijo was crucial for the continuation of this effort. The common agenda
was released May 4 and formal negotiations were supposed to start soon after. Farc´s
zone will also be extended in time. One of the first issues is to define the international participants to be invited as
"acompañantes y garantes" closer to facilitators than mediators. Possible
candidates are: Venezuela, Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Cuba, Norway
and Germany. Another issue to define by each part is their own negotiation teams.
Farc will possibly include Alfonso Cano, Secretariat member and
spokesperson in Tlaxcala and Caracas. The government has not announced yet
whether it will have a new team or will keep the same one. Public meetings to
involve the civil society was another issue, including the participation
procedure for different organizations to present their demands and views on the
peace process. San Vicente del Caguán mayor requested for a revision of Farc´s
authority in the municipalities granted by the government to Farc´s control.
May
5: Jaime Bernal Cuéllar, General Prosecutor, and
the ELN spokespersons, "Francisco Galán" and "Felipe Tórres"
agreed to release the hostages from the Avianca airplane kidnapped by the ELN on
April 12. According with Bernal, ELN made no conditions for their
release tomorrow (May 7) Farc´s and government’s agenda is still on hold since final details
are being negotiated. Tomorrow a new phase of the talks will begin and the
negotiations agenda will be released.
May
6: Negotiating agenda agreed by both parties-
government and Farc-: 1. Negotiated political solution to the
conflict; 2. Human Rights protection; 3. Comprehensive Agrarian Policy; 4.
Natural Resources Exploitation; 5. Colombia’s Economic Structure; 6. Justice,
Drug Trafficking and Corruption; 7. Political Reform to Democracy; 8.
Comprehensive State Reform; 9. International Humanitarian Law; 10. Armed Forces;
11. International Relations; 12. Agreements implementation through democratic
instruments.
May
9: The Comisión de Acompañamiento/
Accompaniment Commission members have already been decided: Mexico, Venezuela,
Costa Rica, Spain, Italy, Sweden and Norway. Farc spokesperson left open the
possibility of including the ELN in the negotiations in the future, since they
could have common points and ELN views are also important for a future in peace. The government could think of granting a
demilitarized zone to the ELN if this group decides to enter peace negotiations. Farc and
Government negotiators names have not been announced yet. It is expected that
within a month both parties will start working towards a peace agreement,
knowing that it will take a long time, before all the points and interests are
satisfied.
May
10: United States authorities supported the Colombian peace process. However, it was pointed out
that the main US interest was the illicit crop eradication and the war against
drugs.
May 19: Both parties are playing their cards to
select their own negotiators for the peace process. Information released
yesterday indicated that Farc-Ep is still seeking international belligerent
status before entering the negotiations. Farc-Ep insisted that the fact that
several Presidents have initiated peace dialogues with the Organization, that
the demilitarized zone has been granted and that they are a
revolutionary army following the minimum regulations of an army according to the
Geneva Protocols. Likewise, Farc-Ep insisted on the exchange procedure (soldiers
for guerrilla members). Several reasons indicated that Farc-Ep is not a
revolutionary army in the extent to be granted belligerent status by a third
party. First, the demilitarized zone
depends on the government and not on actual hold of territory by Farc. Second,
there is no declared civil war in Colombia to justify the internationalization
of the conflict. Third, Farc-Ep is not a separate government in the areas that
it has more leverage. Both parties justify their arguments and obtain support
for them. In the case of Farc-Ep several Western (Spaniards, Italians, Germans
and Canadians) deputies and intellectuals have supported Farc-Ep belligerent
status.
May
25: The exchange issue meetings started yesterday (May 24) with Tirofijo
himself, the Congress both chambers chairpersons (Ospina -Senate and Jattal -
House), Victor G. Ricardo and members of both chambers peace commissions. More
powers to President Pastrana to negotiate the exchange of soldiers for guerrilla
members could be one of the outcomes. Let’s remember that the exchange issue
is being dealt with in a separate round of talks. The Senate member Piedad Córdoba
(Liberal Party) was kidnapped by the Autodefensas, last Friday
(May 22). Some considered (El Espectador) that this represented the end for the
peace process, which has not started yet. Moreover, the Autodefensas demanded
deletion of the "Paramilitary issue" in the Farc-Ep and government
agenda. This issue has been Farc-Ep pre- condition and main interest
in the process.
May
27: The Minister of Defense, Rodrigo Lloreda, presented his resignation today to the President. He
disagreed with the
possibility of indefinitely extending the demilitarized zone, as
Farc-Ep is demanding and apparently Victor G. Ricardo supports. The issue
confronted them and ended with Lloreda´s resignation and Pastrana´s silence. The
top
Military Commanders travelled to Cartagena where Pastrana is chairing the XI
Andean Community Summit to discuss the situation, since they gave full support
to Lloreda yesterday. General Fernando Tapias is the acting Defense Minister now
and the Top Military Commanders declared publicly, after the meeting, their
support for the democratic institutions.
May
28: Pastrana´s meeting with the Top Military
Commanders in Tolemaida (military base) Agreement came out concerning the new
Ministry of Defense. Luis Fernando Ramírez, who run with Pastrana as his
vice-president in the 1994 presidential elections, is replacing Lloreda. The ELN
is not releasing the rest of the kidnapped in the airplane, last April. Farc-Ep,
Congress members and government officials continued negotiations on the exchange
issue. Paramilitary have not released Senator Piedad Córdoba yet.
May 31: The ELN kidnapped close to two hundred people yesterday in Pance, Cali during a religious service. Around 70 were released during the day and it is unknown how many are still retained by this "terrorist group" according to Pastrana´s declaration given in Canada where he is in a State visit. Pastrana indicated that the government is not going to negotiate with the Elenos under pressure and that he demanded the release of all kidnapped in the hands of this group. On the exchange issue (Farc-Ep guerrilla members for soldiers), a project is to be presented to Congress for its study. Pastrana indicated that no such law would be possible without the release of all kidnapped people by Farc-Ep. Tirofijo rejected all conditions. In this sense, the demilitarized zone issue is also a problem. The government under pressure from the Military commanders, wanted to set clear rules in the demilitarized zone and Farc-Ep rejected them. Serpa (liberal party leader and negotiator of Piedad Córdoba release) announced that Castaño will free her in about 10 days and is pressing for talks with the government. Again Pastrana indicated that with such acts the government would not be forced to enter into dialogues with any outlaw organization.
June 4: - Piedad Córdoba, kidnapped by the
Autodefensas,
was released. Government’s negotiators names were disclosed: Juan Gabriel Uribe, lawyer
and journalist, loyal to Alvaro Gómez political ideals, director of El Nuevo
Siglo (conservative newspaper), Concejal in Bogotá, to take Fabio Valencia
Cossio´s Senate seat and Pastrana´s Political Adviser. Fabio Valencia Cossio, participated in the first phase Commission,
Congress president, Antioquia´s conservative leader. Camilo Gómez Alzate, Pastrana´s private secretary, lawyer and
close to Pastrana in different public officers, i.e. Bogota’s Mayor. Pedro
Gómez Barrero, well-known businessman, involved in public life as: Liberal
Party Secretary, Member of the Foreign Affairs Commission and Ambassador to
Venezuela. Retired General José Gonzálo
Forero Delgadillo, Turbay Administration (1978-82) Armed Forces Commander.
Let’s remember that the military representation in the negotiations was
established during the first phase considering that the Military Reform issue
will come out and both parties agreed to include a retired member of the Armed
Forces. Victor G. Ricardo will continue as the Peace High Commissioner and will
coordinate the work. President Pastrana maintains control of the whole process.
Farc will keep the same three negotiators of the first phase: Raúl Reyes, Joaquín Gómez
and Fabián Ramírez. - More than 60 of the close to two hundred civilians
kidnapped by the ELN last Sunday during a religious service are still in the mountains. Victor G. Ricardo announced that the government would
enter talks with the ELN as soon as all civilians are released. - Members
of the US Congress met with Farc representatives in San Vicente del Caguán
mainly on the issue of American citizens kidnapped, disappeared or killed by
this Organization, specially the three indigenous peoples American activists
recently killed by Farc. They also discussed about illegal crops and the peace
process. Victor G. Ricardo was present in the meeting. They are: Robert
White, International Policy Center Chairman,
William Delleahunt (D-Mass) and 7 more other GOP and D - Senators staff
members. - The UN Under-Secretary Olara Otunnu also visited La Machaca, to
advance on the issue of minor (children) and women rights. He came with Carel de
Rooy, Unicef regional director, UNDP director and UN staff members in Colombia.
June 5: Demilitarized zone extended until December 7, 1999 by a governmental decree. 5 of the more than 60 kidnapped in Cali by the ELN were released in humanitarian grounds. There is already the presence in the are of the CICR and the Peoples Defense Delegate. Juan Gabriel Uribe (negotiator with Farc) is negotiating the release of all the kidnapped by the ELN, group that is demanding for a demilitarized zone in Villa Colombia, San Vicente and San Antonio (all in the Jamundi area- aprox. 2 hours from Cali) in order to release all the civilians. Antonio García, ELN spokesperson, indicated that this group could stop all actions and release the kidnapped if the government initiated talks with German mediation. The government has never excluded the possibility of entering into dialogues. However, no talks are possible until the release and cease of all operations against civilians by the ELN.
June
8: no good news about the kidnapped by the
ELN. The exchange issue negotiations are still going on and the Congress did not
approve a project giving Pastrana special faculties for negotiating with the
guerrillas. Demonstrations in Cali and Medellín to protest against the ELN and
Farc kidnapping practices.
June 9: ELN list of hostages: 9 in Barranquilla,
more than 60 from Cali and more than 40 from the airplane. The government
incapable of dealing efficiently with the situation. German mediation could be
possible to allow the release of the civilians and the start of the dialogues. Pastrana
will go on a State visit to Bolivia and attend the
EU-Grupo de Rio Summit in Brazil at the end of June.
June
15: release of 33 ELN hostages from Cali. The
others could be release at the end of the week. According to official news, the process with Farc will get on track.
June 28: peace negotiations with Farc should
reconvene on July 7. So far the main teams are already selected and
the Thematic Committees members are in the selection process. The thematic
committees are a mechanism to allow civil society participation in the process.
They have no real leverage on the dialogues, however, they could become the
think-tank of the process and a mechanism to involve the whole nation in the
talks. Although these lists are not final, government delegates are: Andrés González,
Cundinamarca´s governor representing Colombian Departments (=provinces); Ana
Teresa Bernal, Redepaz director, representing the National Peace Council;
Hernando José Gómez, representing the business community; Jaime Ruiz, National
Planning director; Juan Gómez Martínez, Medellín´s mayor, representing all
municipalities; Guillermo Salah, El Rosario University President,
representing the Universities. Representing the Congress, both Chamber’s chairpersons chosen after the coming new legislative period starting July 20. Labor
unions and the media will also have their own delegates. Farc´s representatives are: Luis Albán Urbano, Ricardo
Ovidio Palmera Pineda, José Velandia, Pedro Nel Daza Narváez, Pedro Aldana.
July
7: Official start of the negotiation phase between the Government and Farc.
July 8: the negotiation process is on hold at least until July 20. Apparently, the lack of confirmation of thematic committees delegates delayed the starting of the talks.
July 19: the negotiations between Farc-Ep and the government should have reconvened today. However, because of disagreement over the Verification Commission mandate they were postponed. One of the basic problems is the lack of confidence among the parties involved. Talks with the ELN for the release of hostages are still under way, and Juan Gabriel Uribe, the government’s envoy, has made progress involving the German government to facilitate the release.
July
20-26: Government and Farc-Ep have not reached
agreement on the mandate and composition of the Demilitarized Zone Verification
Commission agreed upon few months ago. Farc is not willing to grant special and
out of control powers to the Commission. The government is not willing to begin
the negotiation process without an international commission that could verify
Farc-Ep control over the demilitarized zone. Farc-Ep has advanced the idea of having five mayors in the verification
commission instead of international members. Farc-Ep has also suggested to postpone the definition of the Commission and to start the negotiation without
it. Likewise, Farc-Ep has accused the government of having a "Plan B"
that would mean US participation and support in an open war against Farc-Ep. The
government has denied having any kind of "Plan B". The government is very unpopular at the
moment, so unless it shows signs of strength and efficiency in delivering
policies, including peace or alternative policies the lack of confidence and
credibility could only rise.
July 27-August 2: negotiations with Farc-Ep in the
freezer, the worst economic and financial crisis in 20 years (20% unemployment),
political "elite" without major changes, same ineffective practices,
insecurity, violence, dialogues with ELN far from possible are the trademarks of
Pastrana´s first year in office (Aug.7). Victor G. Ricardo had to accept (July
30) that with Farc-Ep there was "only an agreement on the
disagreement". When Pastrana signed a joint communiqué with Marulanda (May
2) to resume the talks, both parties accepted the creation of an international
Verification Commission, to watch the movements of troops, actions of Farc-Ep in
the demilitarized area. At the eve, of starting the negotiations, July 7,
Farc-Ep announced that it would not agree to this Commission. Such Commission,
in their view, is only relevant when there would be "something to
verify", and so far there is nothing. The government was confident of
having such a commission, especially to deal with the relations with Farc-Ep
considering its military power over the zone and civil actions taken by the
Commanders. Colombians know that Farc-Ep has control over larger territories
than this 5 municipalities. However, the difference now is that this zone has a
new kind of legitimacy, weakening the government in the eyes of the
citizens. So, as today, there is no agreement.
Farc-Ep is reluctant to accept any Verification Commission, no matter its
mandate and membership, and the government is reluctant to initiate the
negotiations without one.
August
3: The peace process is getting all confused
in words. It is true that the government tried, unsuccessfully, to postpone
discussion on procedural matters such as the Verification Commission composition
and mandate, knowing that it could create delays in the negotiations. The
government is being blamed for not defining Farc-Ep as a
"narco-guerrilla" organization. In an interview to an Argentinean
newspaper, Pastrana expressed this idea. Barry McCaffrey considered Farc-Ep a
narcoguerrilla, probably in his own search for getting a larger and deeper US
involvement and attention in Colombia to fight drug trafficking. Donnie Marshall
from the DEA, supported Pastrana arguing (at the Congress) that "there is
no evidence that Farc-Ep is a "narcoguerrilla". Regarding the ELN,
Pastrana confirmed that he is willing to look for different alternatives in
order to start peace talks with this group and getting the release of all
hostages. A group of citizens proposed to grant a demilitarized zone to the ELN
to begin with the talks, provided the ELN releases all hostages. The government
is willing to study all proposals in order to reach both objectives: release of
hostages and peace talks with the ELN.
August
5: To allow for a beginning of dialogues with the ELN and the release of hostages the government proposed the creation of a
Commission in which Noemí Sanín, Horacio Serpa, Roberto Camacho (Congress),
and Jaime Bernal Cuéllar would be participating. This Commission could work
together with the government’s representative, Juan
Gabriel Uribe (Pastrana´s political adviser) and the archbishop of Bucaramanga,
Victor Manuel López. On the verification commission problems, Alvaro Uribe Vélez,
Antioquia´s former governor noticed with worry the stagnant stage of the talks
with Farc-Ep and suggested that the government should contact the United Nations
to convince the guerrilla of the verification commission relevance.
August 7: Pastrana is
giving signs of flexibility in regard to the Verification Commission in order to
start negotiations as soon as possible and get the process started. Pastrana
declared that the "door was open" to study different proposals that
could convince Farc-Ep to sit on the negotiating table. The possibility of
excluding foreigners from the Commission and involve nationals could now be
considered by the government. Farc-Ep to respond in the coming days.
August 9-13: Colombian situation seems to be taken unexpected international roads. Venezuela’s President, Hugo Chávez, could be interested in dealing directly with the guerrilla to solve the border incidents involving Colombian guerrillas. Likewise, the US has began to express more interest in the conflict, with declarations such as "Colombia is an emergency situation" by G. McCaffrey or Albright´s, "the peace process is at stalemate." Concerning the ELN, there are efforts undertaken by the civil society members involved in the "Puerta del Cielo" agreement.
August 13: Jaime Garzón, journalist, was murdered.
He, with his humor and straightforward characters became the "voice and
consciousness" of Colombians. The whole nation grieved his death.
August
14-19: Debate over Garzón´s death. Who did
it? Ultra-right groups linked with the Military Forces? The Guerrillas to create
this situation? The Paras (AUC)? The truth is that nobody knows, and most
probably we will never know, like so many other cases in Colombia. The AUC
commander, Castaño, is willing to enter direct talks with Farc -Ep commander,
Tirofijo, to establish a cease-fire and to set mechanisms that would allow
everyone to participate in the peace talks. The government is still waiting for
Tirofijo to set a new date for formal meetings. The EPL (another guerrilla
group) is willing to enter the peace process and is already approaching the
government. The situation with the ELN is still uncertain. In the meantime, all
over Colombia, the "diabolic fish" and the massacres continue.
August
20: The business community proposed a new
country with autonomous regions and social equality. Luis Carlos Villegas (Andi CEO) affirmed that his group (gremios/business
community) do not trust Farc, since this organization has no credibility.
Likewise, Nicanor Restrepo, declared that peace is a good business for everyone.
Pastrana on his side, declared that he believed in Marulanda and that he was
confident that negotiations would be resuming soon.
August 25: AUC
attacked La Gabarra, Santander and proposed a multilateral cease-fire saying
that “it is tired of the
war”. The Peace National Council (Redepaz, Mandato Ciudadano por la
Paz, Business community representative - Fenalco-, former guerrilla members,
etc.) suggested that the negotiations with Farc-Ep should start without
resolving the verification issue. Verification procedures should be handled once
the negotiations get in place. The idea is that the Thematic Committee should
create the rules of procedure for the audiences for the different issues and at
the same time the negotiators could begin dealing with problematic issues of the
agenda: exchange (soldiers-policemen/guerrilla members, civilians rights in the
demilitarized zone, verification mechanisms, and cease-fire procedures). For the
US government demilitarized zone verification seems to be essential.
August 26: Gossip about an “alliance” or
“concurrence of interests” Castro- Chávez- Farc to weaken Colombia’s
ability and stand in the negotiations with the Guerrillas has been going around.
August
27: proposal to humanize the conflict: 1.
Signing humanitarian agreements to respect civilians, especially children,
pregnant women and elderly; 2. Protection zones for displaced people; 3. No
minors in the conflict; 4. Protection of girls from sexual abuse and
participation in the conflict; 5. Anti-personnel Mines removal.
August
28: The referendum (article 104 of the
Constitution) on policemen and soldiers vs. guerrilla members -exchange issue
did not have consensus in Congress. The government will come up with a new
proposal shortly.
September
2: The government decided to create
regional thematic negotiating tables chaired by the Governors to discuss the
different issues in the agenda between the government and the
Farc-Ep. The idea is to work regionally on the proposals and then to pass them
on to the National Thematic Committee. Victor G. Ricardo considered this a right
step, since the peace process should be "decentralized" to consider
everyone’s views and interests. Concerning the EPL, another guerrilla
group, the Governor of Santander, with national authorization, initiated talks
with Francisco Caraballo, EPL spokesperson. Dario Vázquez and Horacio Núñez,
Santander Peace Commission delegates and Jorge Gómez, Santander Peace Adviser,
met with Caraballo. On this matter, the Autodefensas sent a communiqué indicating that
the EPL should be included within the ELN talks, since there were no more than
50 of EPL-ELN dissidents in the national territory.
September
3: Liberal party authorities -Horacio
Serpa, Juan Manuel Santos, Carlos Lemos, Germán Vargas - indicated at the
"Public Order Forum" that the Liberal Party could change its strategy
concerning the Peace process on the grounds that Pastrana´s handling of the
situation is wrong. Santos questioned Victor G. Ricardo´s role and demanded a
replacement, rejected a popular vote concerning the exchange issue and proposed
to convene a National Liberal Party Convention to take a stand, as a
collectivity, on the Peace process. Serpa referred to the lack of governmental
strategies and the failure of "diplomacy for peace". He supported the
renewal of dialogues with Farc-Ep leaving aside the Verification Commission
issue, indicating that the guerrilla should commit to certain conduct in the
demilitarized zone to restore confidence in the process.
September
5: Information disclosed and sent to the
US State Department by EL Salvador FMLN former guerrilla members indicated that
Farc-Ep is buying weapons including missiles to bring to the demilitarized zone.
This could be a reason why Pastrana´s government insisted on the verification
commission to supervise the activities in this zone given to Farc´s control.
Sept.
7-14: The
Liberal Party (Serpa/Santos), united only on its critic towards Pastrana´s
handling of the peace process, otherwise deeply divided, suggested to invite
international mediation to get the process started once again. Either with
different facilitating countries such as in the Contadora case (European and
American States) and the Holy See Mediation such as in the Beagle conflict. It seems that the Liberal Party is trying to get back in track
by politicizing the peace process and make it, once again, an electorate issue.
- At the same time, Juan Manuel Santos (Liberal party leader) criticized Victor
G. Ricardo as being the "stalemate" of the process. Ricardo replied
that he is accountable to the President so he would not resign to Santos.
Ricardo traveled to the demilitarized zone (Sept. 12-13) to present several
proposals to Farc on the Verification Mission in an effort to resume the peace
talks shortly. Former President Betancur (conservative), agreed with Pastrana´s
steps in the peace process and suggested that the negotiators could do the
verification tasks, as a means to resume the talks. Analysts saw that the
military option was gaining points again, after several military victories of the
Armed Forces over the Farc-Ep strongest military "platoon". The
Attorney-General, Alfonso Gómez Méndez, called attention to Law 418 of 1997
mechanisms to facilitate the release of guerrilla members in exchange of
soldiers, thus indicating that no new exchange mechanisms were necessary and their
agreement should not jeopardize the peace process.
Sept.
15: Around 6 p.m., the life of former
President Gaviria Peace Commissioner Jesús Antonio Bejarano vanished as a
result of the current violence and dirty war. As in other cases, i.e. Jaime Garzón,
we will probably never know who killed this peacemaker. There are assumptions
indicating that Farc-Ep is the author of this assassination, since the
Secretariat sentenced him to death in 1998. On Monday (Sept. 13- one month of
Garzón assassination) Bejarano feared for his life. The Peace Process at
stalemate.
Sept. 26: Without a verification commission, the government´s condition to renew peace dialogues, Farc-Ep agreed to resume the talks. Raúl Reyes, Farc-Ep spokesperson declared last Friday that an agreement has been reached with the government representative, Victor G. Ricardo, to leave this question out of the process in order to begin the negotiations. Farc-Ep will announce this week a possible day for the first meeting.
Sept. 28: A sub-commission for complains and
inconveniences happened in the demilitarized zone was created in replacement of
the verification commission. The government representative will be the
president’s private adviser (Secretario privado). Farc-Ep will announce their
delegate in the coming days. This is a consensus formula to renovate the talks
and set a new date to begin the peace negotiations.
October
5: the regional authorities (governors) are
willing to play a role in the peace process, in the understanding that it is the
President the main spokesperson with the guerrillas. The issues to be dealt by
the governors are the violence situation, the kidnapping and displaced persons
problems. The date to resume government-Farc negotiations is not set yet.
October 5-15: By far the most controversial issue is the demilitarized zone, especially now that negotiations might start but without the verification commission. There are important divisions within Pastrana´s government. The Defense Minister shows a video to the American authorities, during a top-level visit to the States seeking more military support, in which there seems to be evidence, involving Farc-Ep in its violation of human rights in the demilitarized zone under its control. The Peace Commissioner, Victor G. Ricardo, declared not knowing of the existence of such video and such violations. On the other hand, former president, Alfonso López Michelsen, suggested, in an article, that if it helps the process and the humanization of the conflict, Farc-Ep should be given political - belligerent status under certain conditions, such as putting an end to the kidnapping practices. The government reacted strongly against this proposal and obviously Farc-Ep welcomed it, since obtaining a political status (belligerence) is one of its purpose. Although, Farc-Ep announced its willingness to start the process after the verification commission issue was solved, that is to say, the date has not been set yet.
October
18: October 24 has been announced as the
date to resume Farc-Ep- government talks in La Uribe (Meta), following the
Tunia Agreement. It is the same day that the national and international "No
More" demonstration will take place. The civil society main
interest is to advance on international humanitarian law and stop all activities
that involve civilians in the conflict, such as kidnapping. The demilitarized zone
mayors will have the responsibility of receiving the complains of any abuse
committed in this territory. With this agreement, the Verification issue was
overcome. Concerning the cease-fire, another civil society priority, Raúl
Reyes, Farc-Ep spokesperson, indicated that it is an issue to be discussed in
the context of commitments concerning the social problems.
October
21: Brief recapitulation: May 2: Pastrana -Tirofijo
agree to begin peace negotiations. May 6: Common Agenda "Change towards the
new Colombia". May 15: Tirofijo informs the government that changes in the
rules concerning the demilitarized zone will not be accepted. June 5: Pastrana names his
negotiations: Pedro Gómez Barrero, Camilo Gómez, Fabio Valencia Cossio, Juan
Gabriel Uribe and General ® José Gonzálo Forero. Farc-Ep negotiators remain the same: Raúl Reyes,
Fabián Ramírez and Joaquín Gómez. June 22: The Prosecutor-General office
suspended the capture orders against the guerrilla members that will represent
Farc-Ep in the National Thematic Commission. July 7: First round postponed. July
19: negotiations suspended as a result of deep disagreement on the Verification
Commission (mandate, composition, time). July 20: Farc-Ep announces that no
negotiation will be possible if the government insists on the Verification
Commission. August 7: Pastrana suggests a humanitarian agreement to be
applicable in the distension zone in exchange of the Verification Commission.
September 12: New informal talks between Victor G. Ricardo and Raúl Reyes.
National Peace Council, former presidents and Liberal Party suggest to resume
talks without the Verification Commission. September 29: The sub-commission for
complains (Farc-Ep and government delegates) proposal and October 7 to resume
talks.
October 5: Farc refuse to accept the Sub-commission. October 15: Victor
G. Ricardo returns to the demilitarized zone in governmental efforts to resume
the process. October 16: La Tunia Agreement, in which Farc-Ep accepts : 1) The
mayors of the demilitarized zone to receive the complains and 2) to resume the
talks next October 24.
October
22: Juan Gabriel Uribe, government
representative, held a meeting with ELN Pablo Beltrán and Ramiro Vargas in La
Habana, Cuba. If ELN decided to enter into formal dialogues with the government
political status could be granted.
October
24: La Uribe, Meta welcomed the government
and Farc-Ep negotiators. The peace process is starting.
"No More" demonstration around Colombia. Consignas: Por la Paz, ni un disparo más, ni una muerte más, ni un
secuestro más, no desplacen más, negociación sin interrupción, vamos por la
paz, no masacren más, ni un ser querido desaparecido, juntos somos más, la paz
no es de pocos, la paz es de nosotros. Colombia viva, libre, en paz
October
27: The ELN kidnapped the journalist, Henry
Romero from Reuter, that released the María chapel hostages pictures. Farc-Ep
and government negotiators will receive the input presented by the National
Thematic Committee coordinators, - Minister of Interior, Néstor Humberto Martínez
and from Farc-Ep, Iván Ríos- , on November 2nd in San Vicente del
Caguán. In La Uribe, last Sunday, both sides agreed to seek for a peaceful
solution and to include mechanisms that allow for a wide range of citizenship
participation in the talks. The Colombian conflict is slowly entering
into the UN bureaucracy. Jan Egeland, former Norwegian Minister of Foreign
Affairs, could be the first secretary-general Special Envoy for Humanitarian
Affairs in Colombia, which constitutes a different figure from a UNSG
Representative with facilitating or mediating functions. In this case, the
figure is better understood in the context of the "Plan Colombia"
promoted by President Pastrana in the US and Europe to finance the peace process
with development programs.
Nov.
2: The first new set of rounds (Farc-Ep and
Government) took place in San Vicente del Caguán. The delegates started setting
the methodology for future discussions and meetings of the National Thematic
Committee and defining the main issues of concern. The meetings will be held
every fortnight (Thursday-Sunday) and when necessary. Simultaneously, the
government delegate for talks with the ELN has informally met with this group
representatives to define the setting for the ELN National Convention and
conditions for future dialogues provided the ELN releasing of all hostages.
November
4: Release of 4 journalists in the hands
of Farc-Ep and Henry Romero retained by the ELN because of a picture showing a
guerrilla member face after the Maria Chapel attack. Citizens participation is
becoming one of the main issues in the talks with Farc-Ep. A Center of
Operations could be created in San Vicente del Caguán with the mandate of
collecting and receiving the citizens proposals via airmail, fax or e-mail and
process them to be presented to both parties in the peace negotiations. So far
the government and Farc-Ep agreed to discuss openly the issues of concern but
without any kind of record, such as taped sessions or summaries of the
discussions. Meetings will take place every fortnight. Each side will keep their
own written record as taken during the sessions, but there will be no official
briefings or records after each meeting. When the parties consider it timely
they will present a joint communiqué. Brazilian President, Fernando Henrique
Cardoso, expressed that his country has no intention in supporting a military
intervention in Colombia, since it would not solve anything at all. Moreover, Brazil is not interested in becoming the
Police Force of Latin America. If President Pastrana asked Brazil, this country
could contribute in the peace process according to the request.
November 5: Media signs a responsibility agreement to deal with the conflict and peace news. The agreement reads: "Conscientes de la responsabilidad social de nuestro oficio, los profesionales de los Medios de Comunicación de Colombia nos comprometemos con este Acuerdo por la Discreción, porque queremos contribuir al logro de la paz, al respeto de la vida y a la búsqueda del bien común. 1. El cubrimiento informativo de actos violentos- ataques contra las poblaciones, masacres, secuestros y combates entre los bandos, será veraz, responsable y equilibrado. Para cumplir con este propósito, cada medio definirá normas de actuación profesional que fomenten el periodismo de calidad y beneficien a su público. 2. No presentaremos rumores como si fueran hechos. La exactitud, que implica ponerlos en contexto, debe primar sobre la rapidez. 3. Fijaremos criterios claros sobre las transmisiones en directo, con el fín de mejorar la calidad de la información y evitar que el medio sea manipulado por los violentos. 4. Por razones éticas y de responsabilidad social no presionaremos periodísticamente a los familiares de las víctimas de hechos violentos. 5. Estableceremos criterios para evitar la difusión y publicación de imágenes y fotografías que puedan generar repulsión en el público, contagio con la violencia o indiferencia ante ésta. 6. Respetaremos y fomentaremos el pluralismo ideológico, doctrinario y político. Utilizaremos expresiones que contribuyan a la convivencia entre los colombianos. Preferiremos perder una noticia antes que una vida. "
The same day the Public Universities peacefully demonstrated and reflected upon peace and violence, with a symbolic act of throwing white balloons into the air from each Alma Mater. The Universities refused to become an extra actor in the conflict. Amnesty International warned that violation of human rights committed by Farc-Ep could be dealt at Criminal International Courts. After the visit at San Vicente del Caguán, Amnesty International worried about the fact that the guerrilla forbids justice to function in the demilitarized zone, therefore Amnesty International proposed the creation of a mechanism that would allow verification of the civilians complains. The civil population living in the demilitarized zone is uncertain about the kind of institutions operating in the zone. Moreover, Farc-Ep admitted executions should be subject of future investigation. On the difficult issue of Paramilitary links to the Military Forces, further investigation is necessary and the government is engaging its responsibility either by lack of reaction or manifest involvement in the actions committed by the Paramilitary. Amnesty International considered that the US could not send military assistance to units that violate human rights or that have any kind of links with the Paramilitary. Other information, originated in the USA (Randy Beers: Undersecretary for Drug trafficking Issues) indicated that Farc-Ep is buying sophisticated weaponry, bought in the black market of the Former Soviet Union, thanks to its links with the drug business.
Néstor Humberto Martínez,
Minister of Interior, and Iván Rios, Farc-Ep delegate to the Thematic Committee
(this 2 representatives and 16 members) are in charge of the methodology to work
within the Thematic Committee and the creation of channels to hear the public
concerns in the issues of peace and conflict resolution, and how to pass the
information to the National Negotiating Table (8 negotiators). Victor G. Ricardo
informed that the idea was to reach an agreement on procedural matters, such as
receiving the public information, via fax, e-mail, mail, teleconferences, on the
12 points set out in the common agenda.
November
6-7: Pastrana despite of his official
trips to the USA and Europe is not getting the financial support he was
expecting to promote and put into operation his "Plan Colombia",
aiming at creating economic conditions to support the peace process. The
international investors are not willing to put money in Colombia, without a
clear map of the projects and the future. The National Negotiating Table (Table)
will promote citizen’s participation in the points of the agenda. The National
Thematic Committee in San Vicente del Caguán will coordinate public audiences.
The Table is in charge of setting the dates, places and issues for the public
audiences. Once the proposals are presented, they will be treated systematically
to be considered at the Table. So the Committee is subordinated to the Table,
and it has no power to make commitments or to hold meetings different to those
indicated by the Table. Its members cannot use the Committee for personal
political climbing. The Committee is neither a place to reach consensus. Once
the Table decides on the issue, the Committee calls to open, plural and
democratic participation, with a subscription mechanism. The main site for the
audiences is San Vicente del Caguán, however other places in the demilitarized
zone can be considered. The government was willing to create a Peace Consultant
Commission with a wide representation from all sectors. However, the Liberal
Party Chairman, Luis Guillermo Vélez, reminded the President that the National
Peace Council existed since the previous administration (Samper) and although it
has not been convened it served the same purposes. This Council has 60
members representing Government, Congress, Political Parties, Labor Unions, Church,
Business Community, Students, Women, Ethnic Minorities, and other sectors of the society. It has been key in
resolving difficult situations such as the verification issue with Farc-Ep or
the dialogues with the ELN. The demilitarized zone celebrated a year and there
are polarized views. The government defends this initiative, necessary to create
confidence to be able to start the peace talks. Farc-Ep insisted that without
social and economic reforms and justice, peace is not possible in the short-term
in Colombia.
November
8: Reminder: The National Negotiating
Table members: Government representatives: Gr.® José G. Forero, Camilo Gómez,
Juan Gabriel Uribe, Fabio Valencia, Pedro Gómez Barrero. Farc-Ep
representatives: Fabián Ramírez, Joaquín Gómez, and Raúl Reyes.
National Thematic Committee methodology:
En
las audiencias no se deberá discutir el mérito de las propuestas, opiniones y
planteamientos ni formular calificativos relativos a las personas.
November
11: Return of the bombs and terrorism in
connection with the government extradition policy, probably under US pressure
and promises of economic assistance to support the peace initiatives. Today in the
Northern area of Bogotá (Avenida Pepe Sierra and Diagonal 18) a car bomb exploded at 11 a.m. killing 6 people and injuring more than
forty, apart from the damage to the infrastructure of the surroundings.
November
16: Another bomb exploded in Medellín.
November
16-25: The Public Order Law 418 of 1997
(previous: Law 104, 1993; Law 241, 1995) was extended by both Chambers,
unchanged, from Dec. 26 on. The Exchange issue difficulties prevented amendments
to be introduced. Concerns about control, humanitarian and human rights issues
were discussed. Moreover, the US government is concerned about the creation of
an "independent" entity within Colombia’s borders, beyond its
control, military and financial strong and with links with the drug-dealing
business.
November 26: In relation with the ELN, Pablo Beltrán, spokesperson, indicated the possibility for the guerrilla members, once the peace negotiations agreed upon, to enter the regular army. Recalling the Unión Patriótica - UP- experience, Beltrán indicated that the ELN would not be interested in creating a political party, since it could be the card for disappearance. The Minister of Defense, Luis Fernando Ramírez, agreed that opportunities should be given to the "reinsertados" or former guerrilla members to make peace feasible in the long term. Similar experiences happened in El Salvador, Guatemala and Nicaragua.
November
27: The ELN National Convention and the
Farc-Ep Public Hearings are similar process aiming at involving the civil
society in the peace processes. The first one is willing to set the agenda
through the civil society participation and involvement and the second one is a
window allowed at the National Negotiating Table to be informed about the public
concerns and desires. In previous negotiations with guerrilla movements, such as
M-19 and EPL, similar methodologies were put into place and civilians had direct
access to government and guerrilla delegates. December 4, the Public Hearings
will be explained to the nation and they will be open to all Colombians willing
to express their ideas and views about the peace process.
November 29: The ELN with Pablo Beltrán, third in command, is trying to get the process with the government started on the basis of three main points: The National Convention, direct talks with the government and release of all hostages held by the ELN. The ELN has high expectations in the National Convention, in which the civil society would play a preponderant role to the extend of be willing (at least in words) to join the regular army and end the military confrontation with the State forces and institutions.
November 30: The Defense Minister, Luis Fernando
Ramírez, proposed a Law to allow guerrilla members to have a new start with
guarantees for those who quit the guerrilla movements. His initiative would
become an addition to the Public Order Law 418. Congress, regarding the drug
cartels “lords” takes his idea from the 1993 Submission Law approved. Many
in Congress are against granting submission and fomenting impunity. Likewise, he
suggested the possibility of buying arms and weapons to those that give up the
fighting. In other scenarios, the governors (the "Gobernaciones" are
the Colombian regional administrative units) created IDEPAZ (Instituto de
Estudios por la Democracia, la Paz y la Convivencia en Colombia, intending to be
a think tank including personalities from all sectors and social classes to
reflect upon conflict resolution in Colombia, considering regional experiences
and discussing related peace and war issues.
December
3: The demilitarized zone will be extended
for 6 more months, according with the Law 418. This weekend Farc-Ep and
government delegates resumed talks and the first public audience was being
prepared at the Corregimiento Los Pozos, an hour drive from San Vicente del
Caguán. During the last
month, Victor G. Ricardo had direct encounters with the ELN in Caracas and
Habana. He is optimist about the prompt release of all hostages (La María
Church, Avianca plane, and Torno Swamp) before setting the details for the
National Convention. Concerning the Christmas truce, the AUC gave freedom to the
forces concerning the issue. In this context, the Antioquia AU will respect a
truce from Dec- 15 to Jan. 15. The Córdoba and Urabá AU would only join in if
Farc-Ep and ELN join in. Farc-Ep is considering it and the ELN is demanding
measures such as freezing the gasoline price for the year 2000.
December
4: Farc-Ep and government teleconference
with the civil society took place with major technical problems that prevented
it from being a success. Only 6 calls in one hour could get through due to
technical problems. The Negotiating
Table blames the National Thematic Committee coordinated by the Minister of the
Interior and Ivan Rios from Farc-Ep. Martinez, the Minister, blames Telecom and
Inravisión and also Farc-Ep´s attack to Gigante (Huila). He argued that the
equipment was being transported by land, since the FAC did not lend any airplane
to fly to San Vicente del Caguán and when it was crossing Gigante, the Farc-Ep
attack took place. The e-mail and homepage has not been set
yet, it is the responsibility of the Interior Ministry to create a technical
secretariat to deal with the hearings organization. Nothing has been done on
this matter yet. Regarding the ELN,
Pablo Beltrán in an interview to El Tiempo presented the idea of unifying the
Public Hearings and the National Convention.
December 9: The Minister of Interior, Néstor
Humberto Martínez, suggested that the government could be willing to consider
the Exchange law pending upon release of all hostages and kidnapped civilians,
police and military. Moreover, the guerrilla movements should commit to never
again use the kidnapping practice in Colombia. Only then, the government would
seriously considering releasing the guerrilla members that are currently in Colombian prisons.
December 14: Order Law passed - Law 418 - by
Congress and extended three more years.
December
16: The facilitating commission
(civilians) is promoting a direct meeting between Pastrana and ELN - Gabino -
Nicolás Rodríguez Bautista - next year, to initiate the peace negotiation with
this group. So far nothing is settled concerning the Convention, that could take
place in South Bolivar, Eastern Antioquia, Middle Magdalena or Norte de
Santander. The facilitators insisted on the release of all hostages retained by
the ELN. All the Maria´s hostages have been released. However, the Barranquilla
and Avianca flight are still in the hands of the guerrilla.
December 20: Rumors about new post for Victor G. Ricardo in Mexico are still rumors. Possible candidates for replacement: Nicanor Restrepo, Juan Gabriel Uribe or Fabio Valencia Cossio Moreover, Farc-Ep declared a truce for 20 days. The UN opened a new HQ-office at Barrancabermeja, Magdalena Medio, with UNDP projects as well as the Human Rights and Special SG Envoy delegates.
December 21-23: Farc-Ep truce will last until January 10, 2000. However, the military do not believe in it, since more attacks against soldiers have been made recently. ELN announced a truce for the holidays while this group is holding "secret" meetings with Victor G. Ricardo, somewhere in the Colombian mountains, to decide how both parties can initiate a peace process and hold the National Convention. These issues are being discussed: demilitarized zone in four municipalities of the South of Bolivar; release of hostages; international verification probably formed by Germany, Spain, Costa Rica and a fourth country; laws in the demilitarized zone.
December 22: Eduardo Pizarro León-Gómez, researcher and director of the Institute for Political Studies and International Relations, Universidad Nacional, was shot. He is a well-known political analyst on the issue of violence in Colombia. He is also the brother of Carlos Pizarro León-Gómez, M-19 commander, assassinated in 1990 and of Hernando also murdered. He is recovering and will settle down in the USA with his family for a while.
