The FARC, Colombia’s largest rebel group, denied having violated a unilateral ceasefire that was implemented on December 15, according to a statement made by the FARC Tuesday.
However, officials of the state of Antioquia in northwestern Colombia holds the FARC responsible for a bomb attack injuring five people Monday.
The announced ceasefire is the second since peace talks began in November last year. The FARC announced a similar unilateral cease of hostilities for December last year, during which guerrilla attacks dropped to almost zero.
MORE: FARC announces 30-day ceasefire, Santos says offensive continues
MORE: FARC warns for more possible attacks before ceasefire
The FARC, during this year’s last round of peace talks in Havana, read a statement in which they criticized President Juan Manuel Santos for indecisiveness in regards to the conflict. Furthermore, the FARC stated that Santos “has been underestimating the importance of general agreement” and asked for “clarity and unity,” Cararol Radio reported.
“Let it be clear that the talks can not be converted into an instrument of electoral propaganda,” said FARC guerrilla spokesman, Marco Leon, referring to Santos, who has announced he will run for re-election in a presidential ballot next May. The campaign is likely to focus on negotiations with the FARC.
The statements were made on the first day of the 18th round of peace negotiations in Havana, Cuba, which focus on the ongoing problem of illicit drugs and drug trafficking in Colombia, the third item on the agenda.
Sources
- Farc desmienten que hayan violado la tregua navideña (Caracol Radio)
- GENERAL REFLECTIONS AT THE START OF THE 18TH ROUND (FARC-EP)
