In a significant development, a front of the Colombian leftist rebel group, the National Liberation Army (ELN), has broken ranks with the central command, becoming the guerrillas’ first dissident faction. The Southern Community Front, operating in Colombia’s Narino province, announced its split from the wider ELN on Tuesday, a move that was confirmed by Pablo Beltran, head of the rebel group’s peace delegation.
Colombia’s government has recognized this dissident faction as an independent organization, marking a new chapter in the country’s efforts to achieve peace. The splintering of the ELN could pose challenges to the total peace policy advocated by the government of leftist President Gustavo Petro, who aims to end the group’s involvement in Colombia’s long-standing internal conflict that has claimed the lives of over 450,000 people.
The government’s peace commissioner’s office stated that they will treat the group from Narino as a distinct and independent organization, separate from the national ELN. This development comes after the ELN announced the end of its suspension on kidnappings, citing delays in the peace process funding.
Negotiations between the government and the ELN have faced setbacks in the past due to the group’s radical positions and internal dissent. The peace commissioner’s office emphasized the importance of ensuring that the ELN upholds its commitment to renounce kidnappings.
As Colombia navigates this new phase in its peace process, the recognition of the dissident ELN faction as an independent entity underscores the complexities and challenges involved in achieving lasting peace in the country.