Armed Fighter Numbers Grow Under Petro Administration

Criminal groups have grown from 15,000 to approximately 22,000 armed fighters during the Petro administration, according to a government report. Sepeta is promising more peace talks if he wins the presidency. The report indicates a increase in armed combatants under the current administration. Bogota political analyst Sandra Borda described the administration as naive and disorganized, stating they lack a plan. Borda noted that the government's approach has primarily been to express a desire to talk to these groups. Political analyst Sandra Borda stated that the administration lacks a coherent military strategy and has focused on dialogue instead. The report comes as candidate Sapehta promises further peace talks if elected. Adam Isaacson of the Washington office noted that President Petro has offered no coherent military strategy to confront criminal groups. The report suggests Petro is promising more peace talks despite the rising violence.