The ELN’s Last Stand: Colombia on the Brink of a New War

The National Liberation Army (ELN) has been at the forefront of Colombia’s 62-year armed conflict. Its leader, Yerson, recently warned that his group would launch a military offensive if necessary, a threat that should be taken seriously. With the new president, Abelardo de la Espriella, taking office and vowing to end peace talks and launch a new military campaign against the ELN, Colombia is on the cusp of a new chapter in its conflict-ridden history.

The ELN’s stronghold in Chocó department, where our correspondent met with Yerson and his troops, is a testament to the group’s resilience and determination. Despite the Farc’s demobilization in 2016, the ELN remains committed to its Marxist-Leninist ideology and Liberation theology framework, which has guided their struggle against poverty and oppression.

The ELN’s rejection of the current political system and its leaders is not unfounded. The election of Gustavo Petro, a leftist guerrilla turned politician, was seen as a historic moment for Colombia. However, his presidency ultimately proved to be a disappointment for many on the left, with only cosmetic reforms implemented despite promises to address the conflict’s root causes.

Yerson’s assessment that Petro was allowed to take power by the “Colombian oligarchy” as a way to pacify the people after the 2019 and 2021 protests is a damning indictment of the country’s power dynamics. It highlights the deep-seated corruption and inequality that continues to plague Colombia, despite its official commitment to democracy.

The new president, De la Espriella, promises to deepen security cooperation with the US and build mega-prisons inspired by Nayib Bukele’s model in El Salvador. However, this approach may only further entrench the conflict rather than bringing peace to Colombia. The ELN’s warning that they are ready for war should be taken seriously, as their military strength is not to be underestimated.

The 6,300-strong ELN force, spread across Colombia and Venezuela, has gathered strength in recent years. Their modern arsenal includes AK-47s, AR-15s, and a .50 calibre sniper rifle, demonstrating their ability to adapt and resist. Moreover, the group’s commitment to social justice and their predominantly poor and indigenous membership makes them a powerful force for change.

The ELN’s struggle is not just about territorial control or military might but also about addressing the deep-seated inequality and oppression that has fueled the conflict for decades. The international community must take note of this critical moment in Colombian history and demand accountability from its leaders.

As Colombia teeters on the brink of war, it is essential to remember that the ELN’s struggle against poverty and oppression has been ongoing for over six decades. With roots in the country’s extreme land inequality and exclusionary politics, this conflict has killed hundreds of thousands and displaced millions, leaving an indelible mark on Colombia’s psyche.

The new president’s background as a criminal lawyer representing accused leaders of the AUC, a rightwing paramilitary group that fought the guerrillas and killed civilians accused of collaborating with them, raises questions about his commitment to justice. His promise to deepen security cooperation with the US and build mega-prisons may only further entrench the conflict.

The ELN’s military strength is not to be underestimated. Their modern arsenal and ability to adapt and resist demonstrate their resilience in the face of adversity. Moreover, the group’s commitment to social justice and their predominantly poor and indigenous membership makes them a powerful force for change.

As Colombia hurtles towards a new war, it is essential to ask: what next? Will we learn from the past or repeat the mistakes of yesteryear? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the ELN’s last stand will not be forgotten anytime soon.