politics
May 7, 2026
Total Peace: Without God or Law
President Gustavo Petro has repeatedly stated that his idea is to turn Colombia into a "world power of life." However, as the country is going, it seems he has been determined to do the exact opposite. Few slogans have aged as poorly, and as quickly, as this one.
TL;DR
- President Petro's goal of making Colombia a "world power of life" is contrasted with the reality of escalating violence.
- Recent attacks in Cauca and Valle, attributed to FARC dissidents led by Iván Mordisco, killed 21 people and injured dozens.
- The government is criticized for providing guarantees to armed groups under the 'Total Peace' process without demanding anything in return.
- President Petro is accused of not visiting victims and instead using the tragedy for political gain, blaming the extreme right.
- Data from Fundación Ideas para la Paz shows 620 attacks in the region since 2022.
- Amnesty International reported 2,794 violent incidents in 2025, with 1,390 attacks on civilians and 139 cases of displacement.
- Hundreds of social leaders and human rights defenders have been assassinated under the current administration.
- The peace process is described as lacking a clear strategy, with ceasefires hindering the armed forces and negotiators being repeatedly undermined.
- Criminal groups have fragmented and increased their numbers, expanding their presence from 26% to 70% of municipalities.
- The assassination of Miguel Uribe is mentioned, with the Fiscalía attributing it to Segunda Marquetalia.
- The government is criticized for appointing criminals as 'peace managers' and holding public events with criminal leaders.
- The 'Pacto de la Picota' involving the president's brother is mentioned, suggesting political benefits were offered for votes.
- There is concern that presidential candidate Iván Cepeda would continue the current policy, as he is described as its architect.