Controversy Surrounding Proposed Fund to Finance ELN and its Impact on Colombian Society

Attorney General Francisco Barbosa Addresses President Gustavo Petro’s Proposal

Barbosa’s Stance on the Proposal

During his presentation, Barbosa emphasized that it is unacceptable to negotiate with criminal groups under the threat of extortion, kidnapping, and terrorism. He firmly stated that Colombians should not be forced to become victims of a “vaccine” imposed by these groups. According to Barbosa, the only motivation to combat crime should be the strict application of the law.

President Petro’s Response

President Gustavo Petro responded to the controversy surrounding the alleged proposal, stating that it was not a point discussed in the peace talks. However, he did not rule out the possibility of considering it in the future. Petro clarified that any agreements regarding the financing of the ELN would be progressive and mutually agreed upon.

Reactions from Other Officials

Defense Minister Iván Velásquez commented that economic benefits for the ELN are topics discussed at the negotiating tables, but no agreement has been reached so far. High Commissioner for Peace, Danilo Rueda, also denied that the creation of a multi-donor fund to replace illicit sources of financing for the ELN has been discussed in the ongoing dialogues.

Conflicting Views

The possibility of creating the fund remains a subject of debate. While some government officials are open to the idea, the Prosecutor’s Office strongly opposes it, arguing that it would be equivalent to “vaccinating” Colombians with a stimulus for crime. The issue continues to generate conflicting versions and opinions.