CRIC announces indigenous summit in Cauca amid government warnings

The Regional Indigenous Council of Cauca (CRIC) has announced an ‘Indigenous Summit and Social Mobilization for Life’ to be held from October 11 to 14, 2026, in the department of Cauca. The event, centered in the El Pital sector of Caldono, aims to discuss human rights, peace, territorial defense, autonomy, and indigenous governance systems.

President Abelardo De La Espriella responded to the announcement by stating that while his government guarantees the right to peaceful protest, it will not tolerate road blockades, violence, or actions intended to paralyze regions as a means of pressure. He emphasized that the administration will not negotiate under threats or through ‘vías de hecho’ (actions of fact).

The President also ordered a detailed audit of approximately 1.13 trillion pesos in state resources previously allocated to CRIC under concerted plans. He stated the government would review these funds “peso por peso” (peso by peso), examining every contract and agreement. In response, CRIC human rights coordinator Mauricio Capaz clarified that the summit does not intend to block roads or disrupt mobility in the department.