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Security crackdowns and state restructuring under de la Esp

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2026-09-20 06:39 UTC → 2026-09-20 23:12 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Since his inauguration on 7 August 2026, President Abelardo de la Espriella has implemented a nationalist security and migration agenda, dismantling the previous ‘paz total’ model in favor of direct law enforcement. The administration categorizes illegal organizations as ‘terrorist groups’ and has intensified security operations, leading to significant judicial friction regarding the use of aerial warfare in areas with minors. In a recent development, the 34th Family Court in Bogotá lifted the suspension on military aerial bombings against illegal armed groups. While the ruling allows operations to resume, it mandates a ‘reinforced standard of precaution.’ The court specified that the presence of a minor in an armed camp does not automatically make it a legitimate military target, as minors must be treated as victims of recruitment. Security enforcement has intensified, with the President reporting the capture of ~~21,940~~ over 22,000 alleged criminals and the seizure of approximately ~~92,621 kilograms~~ 93 tons of ~~narcotics.~~ narcotics and over 2,300 firearms. Recent operations in El Bagre, Antioquia, targeting the Clan del Golfo, resulted in one death and the capture of four ~~arrests.~~ members, including a high-ranking leader. Additionally, following complaints regarding improper cell phone use, the government ordered the transfer of FARC dissident leader alias ‘Firu’ to a maximum-security facility in Santander. Furthermore, the administration issued Decree 1368, lifting the 2015 prohibition on the possession and carrying of firearms to allow citizens to defend themselves against organized crime. Simultaneously, the administration is pursuing structural reforms. Members of the Centro Democrático party, including Senator Julia Correa and Representative Juan Caicedo, have filed a bill to grant the President extraordinary powers for six months. This would allow him to create, merge, or liquidate ministries to increase efficiency. Proponents estimate these measures could save approximately 2% of the GDP, or roughly 42 trillion pesos, to be redirected toward infrastructure and social programs. On the diplomatic front, the government has withdrawn from its co-presidency of the Coalition for Equality of Rights (CID) and is seeking to reform the ‘consulta previa’ mechanism with indigenous authorities.

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