Colombia Ends Ceasefire with Factions of EMC Rebels

Colombia's government has ended its ceasefire with some factions of the EMC rebels, led by commander Ivan Mordisco, due to their rejection of peace talks. The Estado Mayor Central (EMC) consists of dissident former FARC fighters who also reject the 2016 peace deal. President Gustavo Petro faces challenges in his bid to end Colombia's 60-year conflict.

Colombia's government has terminated a ceasefire with factions of the EMC rebels, led by commander Ivan Mordisco, who have shown resistance towards peace talks, the defense ministry announced on Tuesday.

The Estado Mayor Central (EMC) is composed of dissident former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) fighters that reject the 2016 peace accord with the state. The ceasefire will persist for three months with specific blocks including the Gentil Duarte, Jorge Suarez Briceno, and Raul Reyes factions, as stated by the defense ministry in a message via X.

Internal divisions within the EMC, attributed to unspecified disagreements among its leadership, have led to concerns over escalating violence and risks to civilians. In May, President Gustavo Petro considered completely suspending the ceasefire with the EMC following two bombings purportedly carried out by the group in Cauca province. Despite facing significant challenges, Petro is committed to ending Colombia's 60-year conflict, which has claimed 450,000 lives, through fresh peace agreements. The EMC boasts an estimated 3,500 members.

(With inputs from agencies.)