Colombia's President Gustavo Petro Accepts ELN Proposal for Drug Trade Investigation

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has agreed to a proposal from the National Liberation Army (ELN), the country's largest remaining rebel group, to establish an independent commission to investigate the group's alleged connections to the drug trade. This proposal was articulated by Antonio Garcia, the ELN's leader, in a video released on January 20, where he asserted that while the ELN imposes a tax on cocaine traders, it does not manage drug trafficking routes or cocaine laboratories. Garcia stated, “The ELN has no relation to drug trafficking,” and challenged the government to allow an independent body to verify these claims.

Associated Press

In response to the proposal, President Petro emphasized that the verification agency should be “scientific and independent of governments” and that its findings should be submitted to the United Nations. He also urged the ELN to support initiatives aimed at replacing coca crops in the northeastern Catatumbo region. Petro has historically accused the ELN of profiting from the drug trade, labeling its leadership as “drug traffickers dressed up as guerrilla fighters.” The alleged ties to drug trafficking have been a significant barrier to advancing peace negotiations during Petro's administration.

Associated Press

The ELN, founded in the early 1960s, is estimated to have around 5,000 fighters operating in Colombia and neighboring Venezuela. Its influence has grown in rural areas along the Colombia-Venezuela border, particularly as it has filled the power vacuum left by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), which disbanded in 2017 after signing a peace agreement with the Colombian government. Peace talks between the ELN and the Colombian government collapsed last year following an offensive by the ELN in Catatumbo, resulting in numerous casualties and the displacement of over 50,000 individuals.

Associated Press

Despite the ELN's assertions, Petro has maintained that he will only consider resuming negotiations if the group renounces drug trafficking. The Colombian government has previously discussed with U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, the potential for military action against the ELN, indicating a complex relationship between the Colombian government and the rebel group.

Associated Press

President Petro's acceptance of the ELN's proposal reflects a willingness to explore avenues for dialogue, albeit under stringent conditions. He reiterated the necessity for the ELN to abandon its involvement in drug trafficking as a prerequisite for any future peace talks.

Associated Press

• “The ELN has no relation to drug trafficking,” — Antonio Garcia, ELN Leader

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• “scientific and independent of governments” — Gustavo Petro, President of Colombia

Associated Press

This development marks a significant moment in Colombia's ongoing struggle with drug-related violence and the quest for lasting peace with the ELN.

Associated Press