A Symbolic Act of Reconciliation and Land Restitution in Colombia
In a powerful and emotional ceremony held in Montería, Córdoba, former paramilitary leaders Salvatore Mancuso and Carlos Mario Jiménez, known as ‘Macaco’, publicly apologized to victims of Colombia’s paramilitary violence. The event marked a significant moment of national reconciliation, coinciding with the official handover of 8,430 hectares of land formerly controlled by the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AUC) to rural communities affected by the armed conflict.
President Gustavo Petro attended the ceremony, during which seized lands belonging to ex-paramilitary figures such as Macaco, Cuco Vanoy, and Nico were formally returned to displaced and dispossessed families. The restored lands, located in municipalities such as Buenavista, Chinú, and San José de Uré, will benefit 572 individuals, many of whom were forcibly displaced or stripped of their property during the height of the violence.
Commitment to Truth and Reparations
During the event, Salvatore Mancuso expressed deep remorse for the atrocities committed under his command within the AUC. “I ask for forgiveness a thousand times,” he stated, acknowledging the immense suffering caused and voicing his commitment to supporting reparations and truth-telling as paths toward national healing.
Carlos Mario Jiménez, alias Macaco, echoed these sentiments, publicly asking for forgiveness for his role in the conflict. Both men have been designated as peace facilitators by the Colombian government, in an effort to engage them in advancing the truth and facilitating reconciliation efforts in regions most scarred by war.
Victims React: Hope, Skepticism, and the Road Ahead
The reactions among the victims present were mixed. Álvaro Pico, a survivor of a paramilitary attack ordered by Mancuso, responded with cautious optimism, highlighting the importance of fostering reconciliation among Colombians. On the other hand, Jorge Elías Ricardo, president of the Southern Córdoba Peasant Association, emphasized that truth and transparency remain essential pillars of any genuine reparations process.
This event in Montería stands as a meaningful step forward in Colombia’s peace and transitional justice process. Yet, significant challenges remain—especially the effective restitution of land and ensuring justice for victims. While some see the involvement of former paramilitary leaders as a chance to advance toward lasting peace, others remain wary of their sincerity and the depth of their commitment.
