The Peace Commission of the Evangelical Council of Colombia (CEDECOL) Condemns the Murder of Christian Leaders in Calamar, Guaviare, Colombia
We condemn the atrocious murder of eight Christian leaders who had previously disappeared in the municipality of Calamar, Guaviare, in Colombia. Their bodies were found in a mass grave after international organizations and members of the public security forces identified the location where the bodies were placed.
We stand in solidarity with the families of Nixon, Mayori, Isaí, Maribel, James, Carlos, Oscar, and Jesús, victims of this attack on human life and peace; we pray that God comforts and strengthens their spirits and bodies in this time of profound pain and sadness.
We demand that security forces and government agencies conduct a serious and prompt investigation into the causes of their murders, as well as the masterminds and perpetrators of this murder, so that justice may be done.
We use this occasion to warn of other risk situations and threats to religious leaders in the regions of the Norte de Nariño, Bajo Putumayo, Tarazá Antioquía, and Sipi de Chocó. These events run counter to peace, which is understood as shalom, and demand the attention and prevention of government entities and society at large.
We reaffirm our commitment to peacebuilding and stand in solidarity with those who suffer violence, persecution, and fear in territories ravaged by the actions of armed groups that continuously threaten life.
“The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.” Isaiah 32:17
By the Peace Commission of CEDECOL
Unibautista, Paz y Esperanza, Justapaz, World Vision, Corsoc y Confraternidad
Carcelaria de Colombia