Defender of the People warns Abelardo De La Espriella of possible risks to rights: asked to reconsider appointment in the UNP

The defensora del Pueblo, Iris Marín, has issued a formal warning to President-elect Abelardo De La Espriella regarding potential risks to human rights under his administration. In a letter addressed directly to him, she expressed concerns over policies and statements that could lead to violations of fundamental freedoms. The message came amid growing scrutiny of De La Espriella’s stance on media freedom, law enforcement practices, and the treatment of political opposition. Marín highlighted that De La Espriella had previously distinguished between “authentic journalists” and “activists,” rejecting the latter group. She emphasized that this distinction could undermine the protection of all individuals engaged in journalism, including those who criticize the government. She urged De La Espriella to ensure the right to free press, expression, and information, asserting that these rights must remain intact regardless of political alignment. In addition, Marín raised concerns about the proposed repeal of Decree 003 of 2021, which was enacted following a Supreme Court ruling mandating a protocol for handling protests based on neutrality and impartiality. She pointed out that the new approach, reverting to the former Esmad model, could compromise the principles established by the court. She called for reforms to align with the directives of the judicial order, ensuring that responses to demonstrations remain lawful and non-discriminatory. She also noted that while De La Espriella publicly committed to providing democratic guarantees to the opposition, his remarks toward Senator Iván Cepeda appeared contradictory. A publication from the organization Defensores de la Patria cited De La Espriella as having warned against inciting violence or spreading fear. Marín argued that such language could unfairly associate political dissent with criminal behavior, thereby endangering the credibility and safety of opposition figures. Furthermore, Marín criticized the appointment of Didier Blanco as head of the National Protection Unit (UNP), citing past statements by Blanco that were deemed offensive and stigmatizing toward media professionals, politicians, and opposition groups. She stressed that the individual overseeing national security should embody impartiality and trust, capable of safeguarding all sectors of society without bias. Marín also drew attention to the removal of the presidential advisory council on human rights and humanitarian law, as well as the entities responsible for implementing the peace agreement. She requested that any restructuring process include a transparent transition plan outlining which institutions would assume specific roles, how they would be supported, and mechanisms to maintain continuity in ongoing programs. Additionally, she voiced apprehension over the potential abolition of decrees establishing Indigenous Territorial Entities, arguing that such action would contravene constitutional provisions. She further cautioned against hasty decisions related to aerial eradication of illicit crops, environmental licensing, and prior consultation processes, urging careful consideration of their legal and social implications. Her letter concluded with a broader appeal for prudence in governance, emphasizing the need for policies that uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all citizens. The defensora del Pueblo’s intervention underscores the high stakes surrounding the incoming administration’s early policy choices, particularly in matters involving civil liberties, institutional integrity, and the rule of law.