Who was Wilson Borja, the deceased trade unionist and left-wing politician?

In the last few hours, the death of trade union and political leader Wilson Borja, known for his dedication to peace and workers’ rights, was confirmed. Borja, a member of the Colombian Communist Party and later of the Democratic Pole, was also a prominent representative to the Chamber of Deputies in Bogotá and his death has hit the Colombian left hard.

Born in Cartagena, Wilson Borja began his career as a union leader, standing out as president of the National Federation of Workers in the Service of the State (Fenaltrase). His commitment to labor rights led him to become deeply involved in various union organizations and social movements. He was active in the Colombian Communist Party and the Patriotic Union before joining the Democratic Pole in 2005.

During his political career, he was a representative to the House of Representatives for Bogotá for two consecutive terms, from 2002 to 2010, where he stood out for his tireless defense of workers’ rights and his search for peace in Colombia.

One of the most critical moments in Borja’s life was the attack he suffered in 2000, motivated by his activism. A high-ranking Army officer was convicted for his participation in the attack, which left Borja seriously injured. Despite this attempt to silence him, Borja continued his fight, becoming a symbol of resistance and perseverance in the defense of human and labor rights. This attack also highlighted the dangerous reality faced by union and political leaders in Colombia.