At least 10 armed groups in Colombia, including former members of the FARC rebels who reject a peace deal and the Clan del Golfo crime gang, have agreed to participate in unilateral ceasefires, the government said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

President Gustavo Petro, who took office in August, has promised to seek "total peace" with armed groups, fully implementing a 2016 peace accord with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and meeting with dissidents and gangs.&nbsp;

"Each group with its own identity, nature and motivation is expressing its disposition to be part of a total peace, in this exploration phase we've asked them not to kill, not to disappear people and not to torture," Danilo Rueda, the government's high peace commissioner, told journalists at an impromptu press conference. "We are moving ahead."&nbsp;

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Among the groups are two FARC dissident groups - the Estado Mayor Central and Segunda Marquetalia - as well as the Clan del Golfo, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Auto-Defenses and others Rueda did not name.&nbsp;

Illegal armed groups in Colombia - whose six-decade conflict has killed at least 450,000 people - count some 6,000 fighters in their ranks, according to security sources.&nbsp;

Leftist rebels and crime gangs both participate in extortion, murder, drug trafficking and illegal gold mining.&nbsp;

Petro - himself a former member of the urban M-19 guerrilla - has said his government could offer reduced sentences to gang members who hand over ill-gotten assets and give information about drug trafficking.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-and-pacific-island-nations-agree-to-declaration-of-partnership-says-blinken-520760">United States and Pacific island nations agree to ‘declaration of partnership’</a>

"The office of peace is exploring the judicial mechanisms to permit the transition of armed groups to rule of law," said Rueda, who previously met with FARC dissidents.&nbsp;read more&nbsp;

Petro also wants to restart Havana-based peace talks with largest active rebel group the National Liberation Army (ELN), which were called off by his predecessor, and Rueda traveled there soon after the inauguration.&nbsp;

The ELN favors a bilateral ceasefire to pave the way for renewed talks, its top negotiator told Reuters this month.&nbsp;read more&nbsp;

The government has said it will suspend aerial bombings of armed groups in a bid to avoid collateral damage to civilians and deaths of forcibly recruited minors.&nbsp;

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At least 10 armed groups in Colombia, including former members of the FARC rebels who reject a peace deal and the Clan del Golfo crime gang, have agreed to participate in unilateral ceasefires, the government said on Wednesday.

At least 10 armed groups in Colombia, including former members of the FARC rebels who reject a peace deal and the Clan del Golfo crime gang, have agreed to participate in unilateral ceasefires, the government said on Wednesday. President Gustavo Petro, who took office in August, has promised to seek "total peace" with armed groups, fully implementing a 2016 peace accord with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and meeting with dissidents and gangs. "Each group with its own identity, nature and motivation is expressing its disposition to be part of a total peace, in this exploration phase we've asked them not to kill, not to disappear people and not to torture," Danilo Rueda, the government's high peace commissioner, told journalists at an impromptu press conference. "We are moving ahead." Also read | More than 1.8 million without power as Hurricane Ian causes havoc in Florida Among the groups are two FARC dissident groups - the Estado Mayor Central and Segunda Marquetalia - as well as the Clan del Golfo, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Auto-Defenses and others Rueda did not name. Illegal armed groups in Colombia - whose six-decade conflict has killed at least 450,000 people - count some 6,000 fighters in their ranks, according to security sources. Leftist rebels and crime gangs both participate in extortion, murder, drug trafficking and illegal gold mining. Petro - himself a former member of the urban M-19 guerrilla - has said his government could offer reduced sentences to gang members who hand over ill-gotten assets and give information about drug trafficking. Also read | United States and Pacific island nations agree to ‘declaration of partnership’ "The office of peace is exploring the judicial mechanisms to permit the transition of armed groups to rule of law," said Rueda, who previously met with FARC dissidents. read more Petro also wants to restart Havana-based peace talks with largest active rebel group the National Liberation Army (ELN), which were called off by his predecessor, and Rueda traveled there soon after the inauguration. The ELN favors a bilateral ceasefire to pave the way for renewed talks, its top negotiator told Reuters this month. read more The government has said it will suspend aerial bombings of armed groups in a bid to avoid collateral damage to civilians and deaths of forcibly recruited minors.

Colombia says 10 armed groups agree to unilateral ceasefire

Making rules or laws is a tough thing. Because sometimes one size may fit all. Same can be said about concessions. Colombia Congress got to experience this first-hand on Tuesday. In first such move in any parliament in the world, lawmakers were given permission to bring their pets to work. While most expected lawmakers to bring cute little bundles of joy in form of their cats or dogs, one of the senator stole the scene with his stallion.

Alirio Barrera came to work on a horse.

"My pet is my horse," he said.

"If the law is for one, let it be for all."&nbsp;

He not only brought horse to Colombian parliament but he rode through the capital Bogota before steering his steed into the halls of Congress, to make a statement about the importance of horses for the Colombian countryside.

"It is a tribute to the farmers, to the men and women, to the herdsmen who live with horses. To all those people who work in the fields," he told AFP, holding his horse -- named Pasaporte -- by the bridle.&nbsp;

The new policy of allowing pets in parliament was announced by Senate President Roy Barreras last week. He made the announcement with his dog in his lap &nbsp;This makes the Colombian Congress "the first in the world to be pet-friendly," he said.&nbsp;

Although Alirio Barrera caught many an eyeball as he arrived astride his horse, some of his colleagues were not too happy. His horsback ride rubbed some of them in a wrong way.

Senator Andrea Padilla criticized what she called "an immature attitude with which he wanted to ridicule a good decision."&nbsp;

"It is not the same thing to take a dog to the office as a horse," she said. "A horse suffers on the asphalt, on the sidewalk, it suffers on these waxed floors."&nbsp;

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Making rules or laws is a tough thing. Because sometimes one size may fit all. Same can be said about concessions. Colombia Congress got to experience this first-hand on Tuesday.

Making rules or laws is a tough thing. Because sometimes one size may fit all. Same can be said about concessions. Colombia Congress got to experience this first-hand on Tuesday. In first such move in any parliament in the world, lawmakers were given permission to bring their pets to work. While most expected lawmakers to bring cute little bundles of joy in form of their cats or dogs, one of the senator stole the scene with his stallion. Alirio Barrera came to work on a horse. "My pet is my horse," he said. "If the law is for one, let it be for all." He not only brought horse to Colombian parliament but he rode through the capital Bogota before steering his steed into the halls of Congress, to make a statement about the importance of horses for the Colombian countryside. "It is a tribute to the farmers, to the men and women, to the herdsmen who live with horses. To all those people who work in the fields," he told AFP, holding his horse -- named Pasaporte -- by the bridle. The new policy of allowing pets in parliament was announced by Senate President Roy Barreras last week. He made the announcement with his dog in his lap This makes the Colombian Congress "the first in the world to be pet-friendly," he said. Although Alirio Barrera caught many an eyeball as he arrived astride his horse, some of his colleagues were not too happy. His horsback ride rubbed some of them in a wrong way. Senator Andrea Padilla criticized what she called "an immature attitude with which he wanted to ridicule a good decision." "It is not the same thing to take a dog to the office as a horse," she said. "A horse suffers on the asphalt, on the sidewalk, it suffers on these waxed floors." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Colombian parliament allows pets, senator arrives on horseback

In pics | Thousands of Colombians protest against Petro's 'tax reforms'

A string of violent incidents in Colombia over the past three days resulted in the death of 17 people, authorities reported, underscoring the enormous burden on President Petro.

Six people were shot dead by gunmen on Monday morning (September 12) in the northern city of Barranquilla while drinking in a bar.

Another violent incident occurred a day earlier when a group of criminals murdered a teacher, his wife, and their two children in north-central Santander on Sunday (September 11), local authorities said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/colombias-leftist-president-to-give-properties-confiscated-from-drug-traffickers-to-farmers-women-512214">Also read |&nbsp;Colombia's leftist President to give properties confiscated from drug traffickers to farmers, women</a>

Adding to this, five migrants from Venezuela were killed by vigilantes in an act of vengeance. The murderers, the local mayor said, were from Venezuela and wanted to steal money and killed victims with knives. The mayor further said that a wounded member of the deceased family informed the neighbour, who took justice into his own hands and killed the five attackers.

Additionally, a young woman who was a local leader was stabbed to death in her house in the northern Sucre department on Friday night.

As per an NGO leader, 128 locals and community leaders have been killed since the state and Marxist Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia insurgents signed a 2016 peace agreement, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-colombia-restore-diplomatic-ties-after-three-year-break-511018">Also read |&nbsp;Venezuela, Colombia restore diplomatic ties after three-year break</a>

Following his victory in June this year, Petro vowed to impose complete peace on the nation wracked by war. He also swore to begin negotiations with the National Liberation Army. In an effort to break the cycle of violence, he also stated that he would speak to the drug dealers as well.

Conflicts between leftist insurgents, drug traffickers, right-wing paramilitaries, and government troops have plagued Colombia in violence for nearly six decades.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A string of violent incidents in Colombia over the past three days resulted in the death of 17 people, authorities reported, underscoring the enormous burden on President Petro.

A string of violent incidents in Colombia over the past three days resulted in the death of 17 people, authorities reported, underscoring the enormous burden on President Petro. Six people were shot dead by gunmen on Monday morning (September 12) in the northern city of Barranquilla while drinking in a bar. Another violent incident occurred a day earlier when a group of criminals murdered a teacher, his wife, and their two children in north-central Santander on Sunday (September 11), local authorities said. Also read | Colombia's leftist President to give properties confiscated from drug traffickers to farmers, women Adding to this, five migrants from Venezuela were killed by vigilantes in an act of vengeance. The murderers, the local mayor said, were from Venezuela and wanted to steal money and killed victims with knives. The mayor further said that a wounded member of the deceased family informed the neighbour, who took justice into his own hands and killed the five attackers. Additionally, a young woman who was a local leader was stabbed to death in her house in the northern Sucre department on Friday night. As per an NGO leader, 128 locals and community leaders have been killed since the state and Marxist Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia insurgents signed a 2016 peace agreement, AFP reported. Also read | Venezuela, Colombia restore diplomatic ties after three-year break Following his victory in June this year, Petro vowed to impose complete peace on the nation wracked by war. He also swore to begin negotiations with the National Liberation Army. In an effort to break the cycle of violence, he also stated that he would speak to the drug dealers as well. Conflicts between leftist insurgents, drug traffickers, right-wing paramilitaries, and government troops have plagued Colombia in violence for nearly six decades. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Violence in Colombia leaves 17 dead in 72 hours 

According to Marxist President Gustavo Petro, Colombia would donate properties seized from drug trafficking organisations valued at over $4.9 billion to farmers, women's groups, youth groups, and universities.

In order to pay for victim reparations, the Andean nation has long attempted to sell confiscated items and property. Last year, a real estate company was established with the responsibility of managing some of the homes, farms, and other holdings.&nbsp;

However, it can be difficult to sell them because purchasers worry that past owners or their relatives will appear, especially since that prominent former right-wing paramilitary leaders have returned from serving narcotics sentences in the US.

"We must make it so that illegally-acquired assets pass to the Colombian people. It isn't just any amount, it's 22 trillion pesos ($4.9 billion)," Petro said at an event celebrating the appointment of officials, including the new head of the country's anti-money laundering unit, reported Reuters.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-ukrainian-grain-ship-grounded-in-istanbul-halting-traffic-on-turkiyes-bosphorus-strait-512205">Watch: Ukrainian grain ship grounded in Istanbul, halting traffic on Turkiye's Bosphorus strait</a>

"It will require much courage," Petro said, according to a statement.

In addition to promising ambitious social projects, Petro, who was elected in June, has stated that he will work to achieve "total peace" with both criminal gangs and the National Liberation Army (ELN), a communist guerilla organisation.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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According to Marxist President Gustavo Petro, Colombia would donate properties seized from drug trafficking organisations valued at over $4.9 billion to farmers, women's groups, youth groups, and universities.

According to Marxist President Gustavo Petro, Colombia would donate properties seized from drug trafficking organisations valued at over $4.9 billion to farmers, women's groups, youth groups, and universities. In order to pay for victim reparations, the Andean nation has long attempted to sell confiscated items and property. Last year, a real estate company was established with the responsibility of managing some of the homes, farms, and other holdings. However, it can be difficult to sell them because purchasers worry that past owners or their relatives will appear, especially since that prominent former right-wing paramilitary leaders have returned from serving narcotics sentences in the US. "We must make it so that illegally-acquired assets pass to the Colombian people. It isn't just any amount, it's 22 trillion pesos ($4.9 billion)," Petro said at an event celebrating the appointment of officials, including the new head of the country's anti-money laundering unit, reported Reuters. Also Read: Watch: Ukrainian grain ship grounded in Istanbul, halting traffic on Turkiye's Bosphorus strait "It will require much courage," Petro said, according to a statement. In addition to promising ambitious social projects, Petro, who was elected in June, has stated that he will work to achieve "total peace" with both criminal gangs and the National Liberation Army (ELN), a communist guerilla organisation. (with inputs from agencies)

Colombia's leftist President to give properties confiscated from drug traffickers to farmers, women

Venezuela and Colombia restored full diplomatic relations Sunday after a three-year break, as a new leftist government in Bogota takes shape.

A new Colombian ambassador, Armando Benedetti, arrived in Caracas and said on Twitter: "Relations with Venezuela should never have been severed. We are brothers and an imaginary line cannot separate us."

He was welcomed by deputy foreign minister Rander Pena Ramirez, who tweeted that "our historical ties summon us to work together for the happiness of our peoples."

Colombia's new leftist president, Gustavo Petro, and Venezuela's socialist president Nicolas Maduro announced on August 11 that they planned to restore diplomatic relations that were severed in 2019.

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That rupture was the culmination of years of tension between leftist Venezuela and Colombia under successive conservative presidents, starting with Alvaro Uribe.

Embassies and consulates in both countries were closed, and flights between the neighbors grounded.

Even the 2,000-kilometer (1,200-mile) land border between the two countries was closed between 2019 and October 2021, when it was opened to pedestrians only.

Petro is Colombia's first leftist president.

The last president in Colombia, Ivan Duque, did not recognize Maduro as president -- but rather opposition leader Juan Guaido.

Colombia was one of around 60 countries to do so, having rejected Venezuela's 2018 presidential election, which was boycotted by the opposition.

In addition to exchanging ambassadors, the normalization process will include the full reopening of the border, which has remained largely closed to vehicles.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/more-than-57-million-people-affected-by-floods-in-pakistan-over-1000-killed-511004">More than 5.7 million people affected by floods in Pakistan, over 1000 killed</a>

The porous frontier has been the scene of clashes between armed groups.

Caracas and Bogota have also announced intentions to restore military relations.

Benedetti said more than eight million Colombians make a living from trade with Venezuela, which is why one of the objectives is to re-establish trade relations between the two countries.

A similar expectation exists on the Venezuelan side, where industrialists want to normalize the trade that reached $7.2 billion in 2008 but collapsed with the border closure.

Venezuela and Colombia restored full diplomatic relations Sunday after a three-year break, as a new leftist government in Bogota takes shape. A new Colombian ambassador, Armando Benedetti, arrived in Caracas and said on Twitter: "Relations with Venezuela should never have been severed.

Venezuela and Colombia restored full diplomatic relations Sunday after a three-year break, as a new leftist government in Bogota takes shape. A new Colombian ambassador, Armando Benedetti, arrived in Caracas and said on Twitter: "Relations with Venezuela should never have been severed. We are brothers and an imaginary line cannot separate us." He was welcomed by deputy foreign minister Rander Pena Ramirez, who tweeted that "our historical ties summon us to work together for the happiness of our peoples." Colombia's new leftist president, Gustavo Petro, and Venezuela's socialist president Nicolas Maduro announced on August 11 that they planned to restore diplomatic relations that were severed in 2019. Also read | NASA's Artemis I mission to Moon: When and where to watch the historic launch That rupture was the culmination of years of tension between leftist Venezuela and Colombia under successive conservative presidents, starting with Alvaro Uribe. Embassies and consulates in both countries were closed, and flights between the neighbors grounded. Even the 2,000-kilometer (1,200-mile) land border between the two countries was closed between 2019 and October 2021, when it was opened to pedestrians only. Petro is Colombia's first leftist president. The last president in Colombia, Ivan Duque, did not recognize Maduro as president -- but rather opposition leader Juan Guaido. Colombia was one of around 60 countries to do so, having rejected Venezuela's 2018 presidential election, which was boycotted by the opposition. In addition to exchanging ambassadors, the normalization process will include the full reopening of the border, which has remained largely closed to vehicles. Also read | More than 5.7 million people affected by floods in Pakistan, over 1000 killed The porous frontier has been the scene of clashes between armed groups. Caracas and Bogota have also announced intentions to restore military relations. Benedetti said more than eight million Colombians make a living from trade with Venezuela, which is why one of the objectives is to re-establish trade relations between the two countries. A similar expectation exists on the Venezuelan side, where industrialists want to normalize the trade that reached $7.2 billion in 2008 but collapsed with the border closure.

Venezuela, Colombia restore diplomatic ties after three-year break

Two journalists were shot and killed in Colombia on Sunday by assailants on a motorcycle. The duo was returning from covering a carnival, police said. Both worked for a news website called Sol Digital based in the northern town of Fundacion on the Caribbean coast, and they were identified as Leiner Montero Ortega, 37, and Dilia Contreras Cantillo, 39, said Andres Serna, police chief in the department of Magdalena.&nbsp;

Serna later convened an emergency meeting of police officials in Fundacion. The reporters were reportedly driving back to Fundacion from the town of Santa Rosa de Lima, where they had covered a street festival, when the attackers shot them, Serna said. He said another person was wounded, but it is unclear whether this persom was a journalist as well or a civilian.

Police believes that the shooting happened as a result of an argument or altercation at the carnival. But the Free Press Foundation urged police “to take into account Leiner and Dilia’s work as journalists” as they investigate the crime. According to the foundation, last year 768 journalists in Colombia suffered some kind of violence, including killings.&nbsp;

"We are committed to the citizens of Magdalena to resolve in the shortest possible time this sad case involving two journalists who were highly appreciated among their union, family and acquaintances," Serna added.

The government says that Fundacion is among the worst in Colombia in terms of violence, poverty, black market economic activity and weak government institutions. Since a peace accord with leftist FARC rebels was signed in 2016, 10 reporters in Colombia have been killed, AFP reported.

Reporters without Borders says that Colombia is the third most dangerous Latin America country for journalists after Venezuela and Mexico. “We condemn the killing of journalists,” said Juan Pappier, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Two journalists were shot and killed in Colombia on Sunday by assailants on a motorcycle. The duo was returning from covering a carnival, police said. Both worked for a news website called Sol Digital based in the northern town of Fundacion on the Caribbean coast, and they were identified as Leiner Montero Ortega, 37, and Dilia Contreras Cantillo, 39, said Andres Serna, police chief in the department of Magdalena.

Two journalists were shot and killed in Colombia on Sunday by assailants on a motorcycle. The duo was returning from covering a carnival, police said. Both worked for a news website called Sol Digital based in the northern town of Fundacion on the Caribbean coast, and they were identified as Leiner Montero Ortega, 37, and Dilia Contreras Cantillo, 39, said Andres Serna, police chief in the department of Magdalena. Serna later convened an emergency meeting of police officials in Fundacion. The reporters were reportedly driving back to Fundacion from the town of Santa Rosa de Lima, where they had covered a street festival, when the attackers shot them, Serna said. He said another person was wounded, but it is unclear whether this persom was a journalist as well or a civilian. Police believes that the shooting happened as a result of an argument or altercation at the carnival. But the Free Press Foundation urged police “to take into account Leiner and Dilia’s work as journalists” as they investigate the crime. According to the foundation, last year 768 journalists in Colombia suffered some kind of violence, including killings. "We are committed to the citizens of Magdalena to resolve in the shortest possible time this sad case involving two journalists who were highly appreciated among their union, family and acquaintances," Serna added. The government says that Fundacion is among the worst in Colombia in terms of violence, poverty, black market economic activity and weak government institutions. Since a peace accord with leftist FARC rebels was signed in 2016, 10 reporters in Colombia have been killed, AFP reported. Reporters without Borders says that Colombia is the third most dangerous Latin America country for journalists after Venezuela and Mexico. “We condemn the killing of journalists,” said Juan Pappier, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch. (With inputs from agencies)

Two journalists shot and killed in Colombia: Police

Local media in Colombia on &nbsp;Saturday (August 28) said that the Church had released names of 26 priests who were investigated for alleged sexual abuse of minors.

The Archdiocese of Medellin revealed the list of those accused between 1995 and 2019 in response to a court ruling in favour of Juan Pablo Barrientos.

Barrientos is a journalist investigating an alleged network of pedophile clergy.

"Most of these priests ... were suspended for a little while, and went back to being priests again," said Barrientos, who has been investigating sexual assaults by priests for years, in a video released Saturday.

Barrientos managed to get judges to accept his request and force the Archdiocese of Medellin to make the list public.

On Thursday, the prosecution received 14 complaints. The sexual abuses were committed years ago.

Monsignor Ricardo Tobon, Archbishop of Medellin, said that the institution wants to "show transparency, commitment to the truth and that there is no purpose of cover-up."&nbsp;

In a video posted on the Archdiocese's Twitter account, the religious figure accused Barrientos of "an aggressive smear campaign against the Church."

According to the journalist, the Church divulged the names "because the Constitutional Court has forced it to do so."

In 2019, Barrientos published the book "Let the children come to me," an investigation into pederasty and cover-up within the clergy in the South American country, where most people are Roman Catholic.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Local media in Colombia on Saturday (August 28) said that the Church had released names of 26 priests who were investigated for alleged sexual abuse of minors. The Archdiocese of Medellin revealed the list of those accused between 1995 and 2019 in response to a court ruling in favour of Juan Pablo Barrientos.

Local media in Colombia on Saturday (August 28) said that the Church had released names of 26 priests who were investigated for alleged sexual abuse of minors. The Archdiocese of Medellin revealed the list of those accused between 1995 and 2019 in response to a court ruling in favour of Juan Pablo Barrientos. Barrientos is a journalist investigating an alleged network of pedophile clergy. "Most of these priests ... were suspended for a little while, and went back to being priests again," said Barrientos, who has been investigating sexual assaults by priests for years, in a video released Saturday. Barrientos managed to get judges to accept his request and force the Archdiocese of Medellin to make the list public. On Thursday, the prosecution received 14 complaints. The sexual abuses were committed years ago. Monsignor Ricardo Tobon, Archbishop of Medellin, said that the institution wants to "show transparency, commitment to the truth and that there is no purpose of cover-up." In a video posted on the Archdiocese's Twitter account, the religious figure accused Barrientos of "an aggressive smear campaign against the Church." According to the journalist, the Church divulged the names "because the Constitutional Court has forced it to do so." In 2019, Barrientos published the book "Let the children come to me," an investigation into pederasty and cover-up within the clergy in the South American country, where most people are Roman Catholic. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Colombia: Catholic Church releases list of 26 alleged pedophile priests

While being lazy isn't exactly perceived as a virtue, Colombians seem to disagree. They have dedicated an entire festival to being lazy and they celebrate it in style.

Colombians celebrate World Day of Laziness with colourful procession

Colombian “silletero” florists on Monday took out a parade carrying heavy-weighted flower arrangements at the year-long awaited Medellin festival.

Colombia’s Medellin holds annual flower festival

The leftward shift in South America that gained momentum in 2021, with right-wing politicians being worsted in presidential elections in Peru, Chile and Honduras, continues its sweep in 2022.

The leftward shift in South America that gained momentum in 2021, with right-wing politicians being worsted in presidential elections in Peru, Chile and Honduras, continues its sweep in 2022. Colombia, famous for its coffee and the novelist Gabriel Garcia Marquez, has for long remained under right-wing regimes that enjoyed a cosy equation with Washington. Some of these regimes were terrible dictatorships which forced people like Marquez, best known for his One Hundred Years of Solitude to live in exile out of fear of being killed by state-sponsored mafia elements. (Even when Marquez accompanied Cuba’s Fidel Castro to the Non-Aligned Summit in Delhi in 1983 he feared that public exposure could endanger his life. Reports were that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had wanted to meet Marquez and requested Castro to arrange it). The new left wind now sweeping Latin America has brought to the fore the promise of radical change in Colombia with election of Gustavo Petro as president. This marks the end of a long conservative era in Colombia; and, this is the twelfth free and fair national election in the continent to have unseated incumbents in office. Colombia now joins the legion of South American states that are ‘socialist’, and socialist states, notably, Venezuela in recent years have been Washington’s targets for regime change. However, the war in Ukraine saw the US making overtures to countries to which it was hitherto hostile. Venezuela, where Washington has sought to oust President Nicolas Maduro since his election in 2019, is now being wooed for its petroleum. ALSO READ | Jake’s fake take: US NSA lied about Iranian drones for Russia Does this mean the US will hold off on regime change for a while, if only in Latin America? How the US adapts to the change of political direction dictated by the growing inequality, economic breakdown and terrible deprivation inflicted by the Covid pandemic in large swathes of South America would be a matter of worldwide interest. The author is an Editorial Consultant, WION TV. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Red star over South America

Colombia is battling rainfall like never before. The continuous rains have forced water bodies to swell up. The La Garcia river in the west is flowing at a dangerous level.

WION Climate Tracker | La Garcia river overflows; residential areas battle mudslides

Promising to fight inequality and bring peace to a country long haunted by bloody feuds between the government and rebel groups, Colombia’s first leftist president was sworn into office Sunday.

Pledging to unite the polarised country in the fight against inequality and climate change, the former member of the M-19 guerrilla group promised to revive scuppered peace negotiations with the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels.

Saying the United States-led war on drugs has failed, he called for a new international strategy to fight drug trafficking.

During his inauguration speech, he said "I do not want two countries, just as I do not want two societies. I want a strong, just, and united Colombia."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-gustavo-petro-the-ex-guerilla-whos-top-contender-for-colombia-president-483749">Also read |&nbsp;Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's Colombia's first leftist leader</a>

Petro's oath-taking ceremony was attended by Spanish King Felipe VI and at least nine Latin American presidents along with 100,000 invitees.

The 62-year-old former senator had defeated conservative parties that failed to connect with voters frustrated by rising poverty and violence against human rights leaders and environmental groups in rural areas.

Highlighting that climate change must be fought internationally, Petro vowed that Colombia would transition to an economy without coal or oil.

Fueling the popularity of leftist parties in national elections, the focus of voters was turned away from the violent conflicts playing out in rural areas and gave prominence to problems like poverty and corruption by a 2016 peace deal between Colombia’s government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia.

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Promising to fight inequality and bring peace to a country long haunted by bloody feuds between the government and rebel groups, Colombia’s first leftist president was sworn into office Sunday.

Promising to fight inequality and bring peace to a country long haunted by bloody feuds between the government and rebel groups, Colombia’s first leftist president was sworn into office Sunday. Pledging to unite the polarised country in the fight against inequality and climate change, the former member of the M-19 guerrilla group promised to revive scuppered peace negotiations with the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels. Saying the United States-led war on drugs has failed, he called for a new international strategy to fight drug trafficking. During his inauguration speech, he said "I do not want two countries, just as I do not want two societies. I want a strong, just, and united Colombia." Also read | Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's Colombia's first leftist leader Petro's oath-taking ceremony was attended by Spanish King Felipe VI and at least nine Latin American presidents along with 100,000 invitees. The 62-year-old former senator had defeated conservative parties that failed to connect with voters frustrated by rising poverty and violence against human rights leaders and environmental groups in rural areas. Highlighting that climate change must be fought internationally, Petro vowed that Colombia would transition to an economy without coal or oil. Fueling the popularity of leftist parties in national elections, the focus of voters was turned away from the violent conflicts playing out in rural areas and gave prominence to problems like poverty and corruption by a 2016 peace deal between Colombia’s government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia. ×

Former guerrilla leader takes oath as Colombia’s first leftist president

Colombia's Ambassador to India Mariana Pacheco Montes has said that her country electing a left-wing President Gustavo Petro is a show of "strong democracy". Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Mariana explained, "This is the 3rd time he has gone as presidential candidate, so he not new to politics but what is new is Colombia elects for the first time a left-wing President. He got a margin of 3% over his contender, there is lot of expectation and enthusiasm about him coming to power."

As Colombia gets first left-wing President, Envoy Mariana says its a show of strong democracy

As part of cultural connect, a wall outside Delhi's Vasant Vihar metro station has received a makeover in the form of Colombian artwork. The artwork has been painted by renowned Colombian urban artist Laura Ortiz Hernández and an Indian artist named&nbsp;Laxmi.

Speaking to WION, Laura said, "I wanted to portray something that could be at the same time from my country Colombia and also something that looks similar to the movement I see in India. I wanted to portray street vendors, full of colours, urban landscape."

The artwork comes even as Colombia celebrates its 212th Independence day. Laxmi from Kashi Vidyapeeth, Varanasi, said, "I was going for some work and then I saw mam painting and I approached her and requested that I want to also paint and she agreed. I showed some sketches."

The project has come with the collaboration between Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and the Colombian Embassy. Ambassador of Colombia to India Mariana Pacheco Montes told WION, "It is a precious gift to not only the metro station at Vasant Vihar but also shows how similar we are, how well we connect, Colombian and Indian people...I am very proud of both the artists, this is a present from Colombia to Vasant Vihar metro station," Mariana explained before adding, "..we could be very far geographically but are very close in spirit and values."

The Colombian Ambassador also visited the metro station and appreciated the world-class facilities provided by the Delhi Metro. 
&nbsp;

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As part of cultural connect, a wall outside Delhi's Vasant Vihar metro station has received a makeover in the form of Colombian artwork. The artwork has been painted by renowned Colombian urban artist Laura Ortiz Hernández and an Indian artist named Laxmi.

As part of cultural connect, a wall outside Delhi's Vasant Vihar metro station has received a makeover in the form of Colombian artwork. The artwork has been painted by renowned Colombian urban artist Laura Ortiz Hernández and an Indian artist named Laxmi. Speaking to WION, Laura said, "I wanted to portray something that could be at the same time from my country Colombia and also something that looks similar to the movement I see in India. I wanted to portray street vendors, full of colours, urban landscape." The artwork comes even as Colombia celebrates its 212th Independence day. Laxmi from Kashi Vidyapeeth, Varanasi, said, "I was going for some work and then I saw mam painting and I approached her and requested that I want to also paint and she agreed. I showed some sketches." The project has come with the collaboration between Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and the Colombian Embassy. Ambassador of Colombia to India Mariana Pacheco Montes told WION, "It is a precious gift to not only the metro station at Vasant Vihar but also shows how similar we are, how well we connect, Colombian and Indian people...I am very proud of both the artists, this is a present from Colombia to Vasant Vihar metro station," Mariana explained before adding, "..we could be very far geographically but are very close in spirit and values." The Colombian Ambassador also visited the metro station and appreciated the world-class facilities provided by the Delhi Metro. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Delhi's Vasant Vihar Metro Station gets Colombian artwork

Colombian cyclist Miguel Angel Lopez was briefly detained at Madrid airport during a baggage check, police sources told AFP on Friday, denying any link with drug trafficking. Lopez was suspended by his team Astana after a Spanish media report suggested he was arrested on Thursday in connection with possible drug trafficking.

"This is a routine baggage check as is the case with any passenger," Civil Guard sources told AFP. "He is not the subject of an investigation," they added, dismissing the report from Spanish website Ciclo21.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-athletics-cships-eldhose-paul-creates-history-1st-indian-to-qualify-for-mens-triple-jump-final-499651">World Athletics C'ships: Eldhose Paul creates history, 1st Indian to qualify for men's triple jump final</a>

After the announcement of Lopez's detention, Astana had decided to suspend him. "The news that was spread in the media yesterday evening caught us by surprise, and at the moment we do not have any details," the Kazakh team said on Twitter.

"In this regard, the team decided to suspend Miguel Angel Lopez from any activity within the team until all the circumstances of the case are clarified."

The 28-year-old has won four Grand Tour stages but withdrew mid-race from the Giro d'Italia earlier this year.

Colombian cyclist Miguel Angel Lopez was briefly detained at Madrid airport during a baggage check, police sources told AFP on Friday, denying any link with drug trafficking.

Colombian cyclist Miguel Angel Lopez was briefly detained at Madrid airport during a baggage check, police sources told AFP on Friday, denying any link with drug trafficking. Lopez was suspended by his team Astana after a Spanish media report suggested he was arrested on Thursday in connection with possible drug trafficking. "This is a routine baggage check as is the case with any passenger," Civil Guard sources told AFP. "He is not the subject of an investigation," they added, dismissing the report from Spanish website Ciclo21. ALSO READ | World Athletics C'ships: Eldhose Paul creates history, 1st Indian to qualify for men's triple jump final After the announcement of Lopez's detention, Astana had decided to suspend him. "The news that was spread in the media yesterday evening caught us by surprise, and at the moment we do not have any details," the Kazakh team said on Twitter. "In this regard, the team decided to suspend Miguel Angel Lopez from any activity within the team until all the circumstances of the case are clarified." The 28-year-old has won four Grand Tour stages but withdrew mid-race from the Giro d'Italia earlier this year.

Cyclist Miguel Angel Lopez detained during baggage check, police deny any link with drug trafficking

Colombia’s&nbsp;Ambassador to India&nbsp;Mariana Pacheco Montes has said that her country electing a left-wing President&nbsp;Gustavo Petro&nbsp;is a show of “strong democracy”.

Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador&nbsp;Mariana explained, “This is the third time he has gone as a presidential candidate, so he’s not new to politics, but what is new is Colombia elects for the first time a left-wing President. He got a margin of 3 per cent over his contender, there is a lot of expectation and enthusiasm about him coming to power.”

Gustavo Petro will take charge next month. He&nbsp;has been a member of the guerrilla movement that later transformed into a political party. Many of the Latin American countries have seen left-wing governments but Colombia remained the last bastion. Ambassador said that President-elect plans to even have an “open conversation with Venezuela and open the relations” with the neighbouring country, which will be a big breakthrough in the region.&nbsp;In 2019, Venezuela’s Maduro cut off diplomatic ties with Colombia.

WION: For the first time ever, your country will have a leftist govt under President-elect Gustavo Petro, if you can talk about the change in your country.

Mariana Pacheco Montes: It is the first time ever&nbsp;that most Colombians went out to vote, and first time ever Colombia elected a left-wing President, and the first time Colombia elects African-Colombian woman as vice-president. This is a proof of the strong democracy that we have in Colombia, the institutionality and the institutions themselves. We are in the midst of a transition to the new government&nbsp;that will take power on 7th&nbsp;August this year.

WION: How significant is this because we know historically FARC hasn't played a very positive role.

Mariana Pacheco Montes: First, President-elect&nbsp;Gustavo Petro&nbsp;demobilized the guerrilla army in the early 1990s, he is a&nbsp;well-known politician, and after that, he went into politics. This is the 3rd&nbsp;time he has gone as the presidential candidate, so he is not new to politics but what is new is Colombia elected for the first time a left-wing President. He got a margin of 3% over his contender, there is a lot of expectation and enthusiasm about him coming to power. He is receiving a country that despite the pandemic is very well managed. A country that is open and growing and has the largest economic growth last year at 10.8%. For this year, according to OECD, Colombia will grow at 6.8%, one of the highest rate in Latin America. The unemployment rate has also decreased and with pride, I have to say that women are leading the recovery of unemployment in Colombia. So, it’s going to be interesting, with a lot of expectations and a lot of enthusiasm in Colombia. 
&nbsp;

WION: How significant it has been for the region, given Colombia has been the last bastion or the country in the region that never had a left-wing govt. How does it also impact your ties with Venezuela?&nbsp;

Mariana Pacheco Montes:&nbsp;It’s not that the country is falling, it’s just the democratic transition from centre-right to the Left, as in many other countries. Wherever there is democracy, there are transitions, and that is what is going on in Colombia. President-elect has said that he will open a conversation with Venezuela and open relations. That is not to say we haven’t had open and fraternal relations with the Venezuelan people. We have received more than 2 million Venezuelans in Colombia and we have formalized or legalized their status in Colombia. So far 1.8 million Venezuelans are living formally in Colombia. It is what some academicians call the pink tide of Latin America where many of the countries are going towards the left.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WION: The recently announced reconciliation report that has been announced is being hailed as a watershed moment in your country’s history. If you can explain to our viewers this report, and also the peace pact that saw Colombia being discussed at UNSC.

Mariana Pacheco Montes:&nbsp;Colombia signed a peace agreement in 2016 with&nbsp;FARC which became a political party and some of those members did not follow, did not demobilize and are still in illegality. With regards to members who have followed the demobilization process, there are more than 10,000 members of the former FARC and some of them are members of the senate, and members of the House of Representatives which is a big step and part of the peace accord signed in 2016. The peace accord has a process of 16 years that it has to follow, and the Colombian government called the UN for a verification mission so that every 6 months the minister of foreign affairs goes with the head of the implementation of the peace agreement and reports how the implementation of the peace agreement is going on. As such, since India is a member of the UNSC, it&nbsp;has also has been part of those reports in the last year and a half.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WION: How do you see the relationship between India and Colombia going forward?

Mariana Pacheco Montes: Very good, I think we are in a very good stage of our bilateral relations and I am very proud as an ambassador that we have come across many bridges, not only in the economic, and cultural space. We are at Casa Colombia, the first cultural centre at the Colombian embassy, and we expanded Indian investment in Colombia. We had a high-level&nbsp;visit, with the Vice President, and Minister of foreign affairs in October, we had MOS MEA Lekhi going to Colombia, and we hope many more happen. Some great tech transfers and investments in pharma companies have happened in Colombia from India. Tech Mahindra, TCS, and Hero Motorcycles are expanding and doing well in Colombia. I see and am proud to be part to be working hand-in-hand in partnership and friendship which has been stronger than ever.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WION: What is the cultural link between India and Colombia?

Mariana Pacheco Montes: Very much so, not only in music, art and everything. My son is with me here and he is studying Hindustani classical music and he has an Indo-Latino group which is very interesting. We are much alike. At Casa Colombia, we brought an Urban Colombian artist who is painting at Vasant Vihar metro station, so our ties are growing stronger and stronger.

Colombia’s Ambassador to India Mariana Pacheco Montes has said that her country electing a left-wing President Gustavo Petro is a show of “strong democracy”. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Mariana explained, “This is the third time he has gone as a presidential candidate, so he’s not new to politics, but what is new is Colombia elects for the first time a left-wing President.

Colombia’s Ambassador to India Mariana Pacheco Montes has said that her country electing a left-wing President Gustavo Petro is a show of “strong democracy”. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Mariana explained, “This is the third time he has gone as a presidential candidate, so he’s not new to politics, but what is new is Colombia elects for the first time a left-wing President. He got a margin of 3 per cent over his contender, there is a lot of expectation and enthusiasm about him coming to power.” Gustavo Petro will take charge next month. He has been a member of the guerrilla movement that later transformed into a political party. Many of the Latin American countries have seen left-wing governments but Colombia remained the last bastion. Ambassador said that President-elect plans to even have an “open conversation with Venezuela and open the relations” with the neighbouring country, which will be a big breakthrough in the region. In 2019, Venezuela’s Maduro cut off diplomatic ties with Colombia. WION: For the first time ever, your country will have a leftist govt under President-elect Gustavo Petro, if you can talk about the change in your country. Mariana Pacheco Montes: It is the first time ever that most Colombians went out to vote, and first time ever Colombia elected a left-wing President, and the first time Colombia elects African-Colombian woman as vice-president. This is a proof of the strong democracy that we have in Colombia, the institutionality and the institutions themselves. We are in the midst of a transition to the new government that will take power on 7th August this year. WION: How significant is this because we know historically FARC hasn't played a very positive role. Mariana Pacheco Montes: First, President-elect Gustavo Petro demobilized the guerrilla army in the early 1990s, he is a well-known politician, and after that, he went into politics. This is the 3rd time he has gone as the presidential candidate, so he is not new to politics but what is new is Colombia elected for the first time a left-wing President. He got a margin of 3% over his contender, there is a lot of expectation and enthusiasm about him coming to power. He is receiving a country that despite the pandemic is very well managed. A country that is open and growing and has the largest economic growth last year at 10.8%. For this year, according to OECD, Colombia will grow at 6.8%, one of the highest rate in Latin America. The unemployment rate has also decreased and with pride, I have to say that women are leading the recovery of unemployment in Colombia. So, it’s going to be interesting, with a lot of expectations and a lot of enthusiasm in Colombia. WION: How significant it has been for the region, given Colombia has been the last bastion or the country in the region that never had a left-wing govt. How does it also impact your ties with Venezuela? Mariana Pacheco Montes: It’s not that the country is falling, it’s just the democratic transition from centre-right to the Left, as in many other countries. Wherever there is democracy, there are transitions, and that is what is going on in Colombia. President-elect has said that he will open a conversation with Venezuela and open relations. That is not to say we haven’t had open and fraternal relations with the Venezuelan people. We have received more than 2 million Venezuelans in Colombia and we have formalized or legalized their status in Colombia. So far 1.8 million Venezuelans are living formally in Colombia. It is what some academicians call the pink tide of Latin America where many of the countries are going towards the left. WION: The recently announced reconciliation report that has been announced is being hailed as a watershed moment in your country’s history. If you can explain to our viewers this report, and also the peace pact that saw Colombia being discussed at UNSC. Mariana Pacheco Montes: Colombia signed a peace agreement in 2016 with FARC which became a political party and some of those members did not follow, did not demobilize and are still in illegality. With regards to members who have followed the demobilization process, there are more than 10,000 members of the former FARC and some of them are members of the senate, and members of the House of Representatives which is a big step and part of the peace accord signed in 2016. The peace accord has a process of 16 years that it has to follow, and the Colombian government called the UN for a verification mission so that every 6 months the minister of foreign affairs goes with the head of the implementation of the peace agreement and reports how the implementation of the peace agreement is going on. As such, since India is a member of the UNSC, it has also has been part of those reports in the last year and a half. WION: How do you see the relationship between India and Colombia going forward? Mariana Pacheco Montes: Very good, I think we are in a very good stage of our bilateral relations and I am very proud as an ambassador that we have come across many bridges, not only in the economic, and cultural space. We are at Casa Colombia, the first cultural centre at the Colombian embassy, and we expanded Indian investment in Colombia. We had a high-level visit, with the Vice President, and Minister of foreign affairs in October, we had MOS MEA Lekhi going to Colombia, and we hope many more happen. Some great tech transfers and investments in pharma companies have happened in Colombia from India. Tech Mahindra, TCS, and Hero Motorcycles are expanding and doing well in Colombia. I see and am proud to be part to be working hand-in-hand in partnership and friendship which has been stronger than ever. WION: What is the cultural link between India and Colombia? Mariana Pacheco Montes: Very much so, not only in music, art and everything. My son is with me here and he is studying Hindustani classical music and he has an Indo-Latino group which is very interesting. We are much alike. At Casa Colombia, we brought an Urban Colombian artist who is painting at Vasant Vihar metro station, so our ties are growing stronger and stronger.

As Colombia gets its first left-wing President, envoy Mariana says it’s a proof of strong democracy

Nestor Gregorio Vera alias Ivan Mordisco, leader of Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia or FARC, along with nine other rebels was killed by Colombian forces in the country's southwest region last Saturday, according to Defence Minister Diego Molano.

Nestor Gregorio Vera alias Ivan Mordisco, leader of Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia or FARC, along with nine other rebels was killed by Colombian forces in the country's southwest region last Saturday, according to Defence Minister Diego Molano. "With the Jupiter operation against alias 'Iván Mordisco' the last great leader of the Farc falls and the final blow is given to the dissidents." the Minister tweeted on his official handle in Spanish. Con la operación Júpiter contra alias ‘Iván Mordisco’ cae el último gran cabecilla de las Farc y se da la estocada final a las disidencias. pic.twitter.com/hQZIqw8pWU — Diego Molano Aponte (@Diego_Molano) July 15, 2022 × Read More: Colombia-FARC conflict: A timeline Ivan had been a member of FARC since 1990. Initially, he started as a foot soldier and soon made his way to the top by being a sniper and explosive expert. He was particularly a violent leader who had no sense of community and treated civilians as well as his cadre workers with disdain. After FARC and the Colombian government agreed to a peace deal (Read: Havana peace accord) in 2016, Ivan Mordisco was one of the first dissidents to abandon the process. Thereafter, he commanded the dissident first front, comprising over 400 rebels and continued to be at loggerheads with the government. After the death of Gentil Duarte in May this year, Ivan also usurped the dissident groups under the command of Duarte. The dissidents since then had become a security threat, according to the government, which accuses them of murdering community leaders and civilians. To control the menace of drug and human trafficking as well as political killings, the Colombian government launched a military offensive against the group. As reported by WION, in February this year, the Colombian forces, in a similar kind of operation had killed 23 FARC dissidents. Read More: Colombia says at least 23 FARC dissidents killed in operation (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

FARC dissident leader Ivan Mordisco, alongwith nine others neutralised by Colombian forces

Colombia has witnessed a major inflow of tourists and now Andes nation wanted to focus on tourism and end reliance on oil. However, scientists fear that river may be threatened by overtourism.

WION Climate Tracker: Kaleidoscopic river draws tourists, Colombia wants to end reliance on oil

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: Texas migrant deaths; Colombia prison riots

At least 51 prisoners died after a fire broke out during a riot in a prison located in the Tulua city of Colombia. It is one of the worst incidents of prison violence in the country's history.

Prison riots turn deadly in Colombia

In a fire that broke out during a prison riot in southwestern Colombia on Tuesday, at least 49 inmates were killed and dozens more were injured, the national prisons agency said. The tragedy occurred when rioting inmates set a fire to try to prevent police from entering their enclosure at the prison in the city of Tulua, said Tito Castellanos, director of the National Penitentiary and Prison Institute (INPEC).

"Unfortunately there was a riot in the pavilion number eight of the Tulua prison, where there are 1,267 prisoners, with the unfortunate result that 49 people died," Castellanos told La W Radio.

He said another 30 people were "injured and affected by the blaze and the smoke."

As reported by AFP, Castellanos said authorities were investigating whether prisoners had lit their mattresses as part of an "escape attempt" or whether the riot was provoked "to cover some other situation." He made no mention of whether any prisoners actually escaped.

A report by Caracol Radio said more than 40 people had been injured. There were 180 inmates in the prison section affected by the fire.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/texas-trailer-tragedy-22-mexicans-among-dead-migrants-white-house-says-heartbreaking-492659">Texas trailer tragedy: 22 Mexicans among dead migrants, White House says 'heartbreaking'</a>

Castellanos praised the efforts of prison guards, some of whom were injured, to control the blaze and help prisoners to safety. He said that without their intervention "the result would have been worse."

Outgoing President Ivan Duque sent a tweet offering his solidarity with relatives of the victims.

"We regret the events that occurred in the prison in Tulua, Valle del Cauca," Duque said.

"I have given instructions to clarify this terrible situation. My solidarity is with the families of the victims," he added.

Fatal prison riots are not uncommon in Latin America. In Colombia's neighbour Ecuador, nearly 400 prisoners have been killed in six riots since early 2021. Colombia's prison system has a capacity of 97,000 inmates but is overpopulated by some 16,000, according to INPEC.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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In a fire that broke out during a prison riot in southwestern Colombia on Tuesday, at least 49 inmates were killed and dozens more were injured, the national prisons agency said.

In a fire that broke out during a prison riot in southwestern Colombia on Tuesday, at least 49 inmates were killed and dozens more were injured, the national prisons agency said. The tragedy occurred when rioting inmates set a fire to try to prevent police from entering their enclosure at the prison in the city of Tulua, said Tito Castellanos, director of the National Penitentiary and Prison Institute (INPEC). "Unfortunately there was a riot in the pavilion number eight of the Tulua prison, where there are 1,267 prisoners, with the unfortunate result that 49 people died," Castellanos told La W Radio. He said another 30 people were "injured and affected by the blaze and the smoke." As reported by AFP, Castellanos said authorities were investigating whether prisoners had lit their mattresses as part of an "escape attempt" or whether the riot was provoked "to cover some other situation." He made no mention of whether any prisoners actually escaped. A report by Caracol Radio said more than 40 people had been injured. There were 180 inmates in the prison section affected by the fire. Also Read: Texas trailer tragedy: 22 Mexicans among dead migrants, White House says 'heartbreaking' Castellanos praised the efforts of prison guards, some of whom were injured, to control the blaze and help prisoners to safety. He said that without their intervention "the result would have been worse." Outgoing President Ivan Duque sent a tweet offering his solidarity with relatives of the victims. "We regret the events that occurred in the prison in Tulua, Valle del Cauca," Duque said. "I have given instructions to clarify this terrible situation. My solidarity is with the families of the victims," he added. Fatal prison riots are not uncommon in Latin America. In Colombia's neighbour Ecuador, nearly 400 prisoners have been killed in six riots since early 2021. Colombia's prison system has a capacity of 97,000 inmates but is overpopulated by some 16,000, according to INPEC. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least 49 dead in Colombia prison riot and fire

During a traditional event in Colombia involving a bullfight, Hundreds of people were injured after a stand collapsed. Tragically, four people were killed as well.

Colombia: Four killed as a bullfight stand collapses

The partial collapse of the grandstand at a bullring in Columbia has left four dead and more than 300 injured. The popular event, during which members of the public face-off with small bulls, was being held on the feast day of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

A full three-story section of wooden stands filled with spectators can be seen toppling forward into the ring and throwing dozens of people to the ground in several videos posted on social media.

The videos showed a bull roaming in the arena while were people trying to escape from the stands but were unable to do so because of the rush and chaos.

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Espero que todas las personas afectadas por el derrumbe de la plaza de El Espinal puedan salir airosas de sus heridas. 
 
Esto ya había sucedido antes en Sincelejo. 
 
Le solicito a las alcaldías no autorizar más espectáculos con la muerte de personas o animales. <a href="https://t.co/dMAq6uqlKX">pic.twitter.com/dMAq6uqlKX</a>
— Gustavo Petro (@petrogustavo) <a href="https://twitter.com/petrogustavo/status/1541138473532493826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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After the accident in the town of El Espinal, Tolima provincial governor Jose Ricardo Orozco told local Blu Radio that "There are four dead at this moment - two women, a man, and a minor."

Adding that he did not know exactly what the stand was constructed with but it appeared to be wooden boards, Vellez said ambulances were sent from the nearby cities of Ibague and Melgar to help the injured.

Expressing his solidarity with the families of those killed and hurt., Colombia's outgoing President Ivan Duque said on Twitter "We will request an investigation of the facts about what happened."

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Sentimos la terrible tragedia registrada en El Espinal, Tolima, durante las fiestas de San Pedro y San Juan, por desplome de palcos en una corraleja. Pediremos una investigación de los hechos; pronta recuperación a los heridos y solidaridad con las familias de las víctimas.
— Iván Duque 🇨🇴 (@IvanDuque) <a href="https://twitter.com/IvanDuque/status/1541162041368612864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Saying they were dangerous and promoted animal abuse, Orozco said the departmental government would move to ban the so-called "corralejas" in which residents try their luck in the ring.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-gustavo-petro-the-ex-guerilla-whos-top-contender-for-colombia-president-483749">Also see |&nbsp;Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's Colombia's first leftist leader</a>

Joining Orozco in calling for the amateur bullfights to be banned, President-Elect Gustavo Petro, who will take office on August 7, highlighted that he had put a stop to bullfights in Bogota when he was its mayor.

Bullfights and cock fights are protected because of the cultural history behind them in Columbia even though animal abuse is a crime in the country. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The partial collapse of the grandstand at a bullring in Columbia has left four dead and more than 300 injured. The popular event, during which members of the public face-off with small bulls, was being held on the feast day of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

The partial collapse of the grandstand at a bullring in Columbia has left four dead and more than 300 injured. The popular event, during which members of the public face-off with small bulls, was being held on the feast day of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. A full three-story section of wooden stands filled with spectators can be seen toppling forward into the ring and throwing dozens of people to the ground in several videos posted on social media. The videos showed a bull roaming in the arena while were people trying to escape from the stands but were unable to do so because of the rush and chaos. Espero que todas las personas afectadas por el derrumbe de la plaza de El Espinal puedan salir airosas de sus heridas. Esto ya había sucedido antes en Sincelejo. Le solicito a las alcaldías no autorizar más espectáculos con la muerte de personas o animales. pic.twitter.com/dMAq6uqlKX — Gustavo Petro (@petrogustavo) June 26, 2022 × After the accident in the town of El Espinal, Tolima provincial governor Jose Ricardo Orozco told local Blu Radio that "There are four dead at this moment - two women, a man, and a minor." Adding that he did not know exactly what the stand was constructed with but it appeared to be wooden boards, Vellez said ambulances were sent from the nearby cities of Ibague and Melgar to help the injured. Expressing his solidarity with the families of those killed and hurt., Colombia's outgoing President Ivan Duque said on Twitter "We will request an investigation of the facts about what happened." Sentimos la terrible tragedia registrada en El Espinal, Tolima, durante las fiestas de San Pedro y San Juan, por desplome de palcos en una corraleja. Pediremos una investigación de los hechos; pronta recuperación a los heridos y solidaridad con las familias de las víctimas. — Iván Duque 🇨🇴 (@IvanDuque) June 26, 2022 × Saying they were dangerous and promoted animal abuse, Orozco said the departmental government would move to ban the so-called "corralejas" in which residents try their luck in the ring. Also see | Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's Colombia's first leftist leader Joining Orozco in calling for the amateur bullfights to be banned, President-Elect Gustavo Petro, who will take office on August 7, highlighted that he had put a stop to bullfights in Bogota when he was its mayor. Bullfights and cock fights are protected because of the cultural history behind them in Columbia even though animal abuse is a crime in the country. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Watch | Collapse of bullring leaves four dead, hundreds injured in Colombia

Colombia has elected its first leftist President after Gustavo Petro wins by 720,000 votes. Meanwhile, 'King of TikTok' failed to gain upper hand in the elections.

'Pink Tide' reaches Colombia as Colombia elects its first leftist President Gustavo Petro

A former member of the M-19 guerrilla movement, leftist Gustavo Petro, has won the presidential elections in Colombia on Sunday. He had vowed to bring social and economic change. In the history of the country, Petro is the first progressive to achieve the feat. With a wide margin of 719,975 votes, 62-year-old Petro, who is a former mayor of capital Bogota, won against construction magnate Rodolfo Hernandez. In the polling carried out ahead of the vote, the two were technically tied. Petro got 50.5% votes while Hernandez bagged 47.3%. &nbsp;

In a short video on social media, Hernandez accepted his defeat and said, "As I said during the campaign, I accept the results of this election." &nbsp;

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Petro, who is currently a senator, has vowed to fight inequality with pension reforms, free university education and high taxes on unproductive land. He also looks to come up with a ban on new oil projects. Petro seems to have been tortured by the military when he was detained for involvement with the guerrillas. &nbsp;

The running mate of Petro, Francia Marquez, will become the first Afro-Colombian woman vice-president. She is a single mother and former housekeeper. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A former member of the M-19 guerrilla movement, leftist Gustavo Petro, has won the presidential elections in Colombia on Sunday. He had vowed to bring social and economic change.

A former member of the M-19 guerrilla movement, leftist Gustavo Petro, has won the presidential elections in Colombia on Sunday. He had vowed to bring social and economic change. In the history of the country, Petro is the first progressive to achieve the feat. With a wide margin of 719,975 votes, 62-year-old Petro, who is a former mayor of capital Bogota, won against construction magnate Rodolfo Hernandez. In the polling carried out ahead of the vote, the two were technically tied. Petro got 50.5% votes while Hernandez bagged 47.3%. In a short video on social media, Hernandez accepted his defeat and said, "As I said during the campaign, I accept the results of this election." Watch WION's live TV here: Petro, who is currently a senator, has vowed to fight inequality with pension reforms, free university education and high taxes on unproductive land. He also looks to come up with a ban on new oil projects. Petro seems to have been tortured by the military when he was detained for involvement with the guerrillas. The running mate of Petro, Francia Marquez, will become the first Afro-Colombian woman vice-president. She is a single mother and former housekeeper. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Former guerrilla Gustavo Petro wins presidential elections in Colombia

Colombia elects its first leftist President as Gustavo Petro wins by 720,000 votes

Colombia elects its first leftist President as Gustavo Petro wins

Environmental activist Francia Marquez, who was former leftist guerrilla Gustavo Petro's running mate in the Colombian election, will be the first black woman to become the vice president of the country.

Black people have been grossly underrepresented in politics even though they comprise 9.3 per cent of Colombia's population. 
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Marquez, who is a single mother and former housekeeper, has promised to improve the lives of women, black and indigenous people, peasants, the gay community, and young people.

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Even though Marquez has pledged to improve women's rights and help the poor access health and education, it is unclear how much freedom the 40-year-old will have to carry them out as the position of vice president is nebulous in Colombia.

Petro, who repeatedly clashed with officials when he was Bogota's mayor, is a stubborn manager and presidents are free to assign ministries or other specialties to their second-in-command in Colombia.

Marquez, who won the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize in 2018 for opposing gold mining in her home municipality of Suarez, has received death threats from illegal armed groups.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-gustavo-petro-the-ex-guerilla-whos-top-contender-for-colombia-president-483749">Also see |&nbsp;Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's top contender for Colombia president</a>

Political analysts have predicted that Marquez is slated to lead a new equality ministry when the officials are chosen.

Andes director for the Washington Office on Latin America, Gimena Sanchez-Garzoli told Reuters that the two may clash once in office if Petro reneges on plans to give Marquez a policymaking role or micro-manages her decisions.

According to Sanchez-Garzoli, ''He has always put what he thinks is most important, or his idea of what things should be, before really getting a full consensus with others.''

In their coalition's March primary, Marquez came second to Petro with 783,000 votes. Tallying more ballots than the winner of the centrist primary, she has significant support on her own merits, according to Sanchez-Garzoli.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Environmental activist Francia Marquez, who was former leftist guerrilla Gustavo Petro's running mate in the Colombian election, will be the first black woman to become the vice president of the country.

Environmental activist Francia Marquez, who was former leftist guerrilla Gustavo Petro's running mate in the Colombian election, will be the first black woman to become the vice president of the country. Black people have been grossly underrepresented in politics even though they comprise 9.3 per cent of Colombia's population. Marquez, who is a single mother and former housekeeper, has promised to improve the lives of women, black and indigenous people, peasants, the gay community, and young people. × Even though Marquez has pledged to improve women's rights and help the poor access health and education, it is unclear how much freedom the 40-year-old will have to carry them out as the position of vice president is nebulous in Colombia. Petro, who repeatedly clashed with officials when he was Bogota's mayor, is a stubborn manager and presidents are free to assign ministries or other specialties to their second-in-command in Colombia. Marquez, who won the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize in 2018 for opposing gold mining in her home municipality of Suarez, has received death threats from illegal armed groups. Also see | Who is Gustavo Petro, the ex-guerilla who's top contender for Colombia president Political analysts have predicted that Marquez is slated to lead a new equality ministry when the officials are chosen. Andes director for the Washington Office on Latin America, Gimena Sanchez-Garzoli told Reuters that the two may clash once in office if Petro reneges on plans to give Marquez a policymaking role or micro-manages her decisions. According to Sanchez-Garzoli, ''He has always put what he thinks is most important, or his idea of what things should be, before really getting a full consensus with others.'' In their coalition's March primary, Marquez came second to Petro with 783,000 votes. Tallying more ballots than the winner of the centrist primary, she has significant support on her own merits, according to Sanchez-Garzoli. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Who is Francia Marquez, the first black Colombian vice president?

It is a battle of former mayors as Colombia's Presidential polls underway. On one side is Gustavo Petro a rebel-turned politician who was the former mayor of Bogota, on the other hand, is Rodolfo Hernández Suárez so-called TikTok king. For more perspective on this, we're joined by Emily Hart, Journalist from Colombia.

Colombia's Presidential polls: Will Petro become Colombia's first left-wing president?

It is a battle of former mayors as Colombia goes to the polls on the today. On one side is Gustavo Petro a rebel-turned politician who was the former mayor of Bogota, on the other hand, is Rodolfo Hernández Suárez so-called TikTok king.

Colombia's Presidential elections: Second round of polls to begin today

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