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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 4, 2026Miami-Dade

President Gustavo Petro calls for the organization of 'popular militias' in southwestern Colombia

President Gustavo Petro has urged social movements to form 'popular militias' to defend against attacks from groups he described as 'narcotrafficking fascists.' This call follows recent violent incidents targeting an indigenous leader and a member of his political party.

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Why It Matters

The statement represents a significant shift in official rhetoric regarding public security and the role of civilian groups in state-monopolized defense, impacting the security landscape in southwestern Colombia.

Key Facts

  • President Gustavo Petro called for the creation of 'popular militias' in southwestern Colombia.
  • The stated purpose of these militias is to defend against 'narcotrafficking fascist' groups.
  • The call was prompted by attacks on an indigenous leader and a politician from Petro's party over the weekend.
  • The statement was issued on a Monday in Bogotá.

Who's Mentioned

personGustavo Petro“Outgoing President of Colombia”personGuillermo Blanco“Representative for the Conservative Party”locationColombia“Country where the events are taking place”personAbelardo de la Espriella“President-elect of Colombia”personJulián Mauricio Gutiérrez“Indigenous leader killed in Florida, Valle del Cauca”locationCauca“Region in southwest Colombia”personYesid Sandoval“Deputy of the Pacto Histórico party”locationCali“City where the inauguration is scheduled”personDonald Trump“Supporter of Abelardo de la Espriella”