The ELN announced a unilateral ceasefire during Colombia’s second-round presidential election, but continues to hold two CTI officials hostage, according to local media reports. The guerrilla group’s declaration comes as the country prepares for the June 21 runoff between leftist candidate Gustavo Petro and right-wing contender Rodolfo Hernández.
Ceasefire Amid Electoral Tensions
The National Liberation Army (ELN) stated the temporary truce would apply to “all military operations” during the election period, aiming to “ensure a peaceful vote,” according to a statement cited by El Colombiano. The group also criticized U.S. support for Hernández, alleging it undermines Colombia’s sovereignty. A separate report from Infobae noted the ELN’s decision followed weeks of heightened violence in rural regions, where the group has historically maintained strong ties.
Colombian authorities have not confirmed the ceasefire’s scope or duration. The National Protection Unit, which oversees security for political figures, has yet to issue a formal response. Meanwhile, the fate of the two CTI (Technical Investigation Corps) officials—whose detention was first reported by La FM—remains unclear. The CTI, a specialized unit investigating organized crime, has not released additional details about the situation.
Questions Over Hostage Situation
The ELN’s announcement has drawn mixed reactions. While some analysts view the truce as a strategic move to reduce international scrutiny ahead of the election, others question its sincerity. “The group has a history of using temporary pauses to regroup,” said MarÃa López, a conflict studies professor at the University of Antioquia, in a statement reported by Portafolio.co. “The continued detention of state officials complicates any narrative of goodwill.”
The U.S. State Department has not commented directly on the ELN’s claims. However, a spokesperson reiterated support for Colombia’s democratic process, stating, “We encourage all parties to prioritize the safety and security of citizens during this critical period.” The statement did not address the group’s criticism of Trump’s endorsement of Hernández, which was highlighted by La FM.
As the election approaches, the ELN’s actions underscore the complex interplay between armed groups and Colombia’s political landscape. The group’s influence, though diminished from its 1990s peak, remains significant in regions where government presence is limited.
