De la Espriella Says Colombia’s Opposition Protest Was ‘98% Peaceful’

Colombian President Abelardo De la Espriella claimed that 98% of Wednesday's nationwide opposition protest on October 14 was peaceful. The demonstration, organized by labor unions, social organizations, and left-wing political groups, drew approximately 62,000 participants across ten cities. While most marches proceeded without major incidents, vandalism and clashes with police occurred in Bogotá. Former President Gustavo Petro participated in the protests, which were marked by heavy rain.

The government's official tally, released by the Dialogue and Order Maintenance Unit (UNDMO), recorded six intervention sites, two in Bogotá, two in Ibague, one in Popayan, and one in Medellín. Six arrests were also documented for alleged acts of vandalism in Monteria, Pasto, and Ibague.

De la Espriella deemed the outcome positive but warned against "urban terrorism." He asserted that his government would not tolerate violence, vandalism, or the violation of others' rights. The president defended the security forces' preparedness to respond to potential violent incidents. However, the 62,000 protesters figure does not represent the entire national turnout, as the president himself provided this estimation.

The opposition protests highlighted concerns over President De la Espriella's administration, including Decree 1525, which altered police conduct during demonstrations. Critics worry the new rules may grant police greater leeway to use force and diminish safeguards for peaceful protest. The president emphasized that peaceful protest is respected, protected, and guaranteed, but violence, vandalism, and attempts to violate others' rights will not be tolerated under his administration.