Colombia’s recent presidential election was overshadowed by allegations of voter intimidation, with reports suggesting that armed groups exerted pressure on voters and religious leaders. As Abelardo de la Espriella took office with a narrow victory, concerns about the influence of militant groups persist.
In the election’s second round, De la Espriella won 49.7% of the vote, narrowly surpassing his rival, Iván Cepeda, who garnered 48.7%. Despite the close race, allegations of coercion by groups such as the National Liberation Army (ELN) and remnants of the FARC have emerged, particularly affecting areas like Arauca, Caquetá, Cauca, Guaviare, and Nariño.
Pastors in these regions reported to Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) that they were compelled by the ELN to attend meetings where they were warned to be cautious about their political endorsements. Additionally, the ELN communicated a ban on establishing new churches, claiming there are already “enough.”
Similar intimidation tactics were reported in Caquetá and Cauca, where FARC splinter factions allegedly monitored church members’ votes and demanded photographic evidence of marked ballots to ensure compliance with their directives.
Amidst these threats, some churches, including the Quadrangular Christian Church in Arauca, have declared a stance of political neutrality, emphasizing their focus on spiritual missions.
Anna Lee Stangl, CSW’s Director of Advocacy and Americas Team Leader, expressed alarm over these developments, stating, “CSW is deeply concerned by credible allegations of voter intimidation and coercion by illegal armed groups across Colombia.” She highlighted the targeting of religious leaders by these groups, who view them as obstacles to their dominance.
In light of these incidents, CSW is calling on Colombia’s new President to reinstate protective measures for religious leaders, many of whom face threats from militants seeking to suppress their influence.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
