Attacks shock Colombia just weeks before presidential election

Key Points:

• Since last Friday, rebel groups in southwestern Colombia have conducted 26 attacks using explosives and drones, including a deadly blast on a highway between Cali and Popayan that killed 21 people, raising security concerns ahead of the May presidential election.
• The FARC-EMC, led by Nestor Vera (Iván Mordisco), a former FARC member who rejected the 2016 peace deal, has been blamed for the attacks as it seeks to assert control over drug trafficking routes and illegal mining areas.
• Colombia’s government, under President Gustavo Petro, has pursued a "total peace" strategy offering ceasefires to rebel groups, but critics argue this approach has allowed armed groups to regroup and strengthen rather than promote lasting peace.
• The opposition candidates in the upcoming election are capitalizing on security issues by promising tougher measures against rebel groups, contrasting with the ruling party’s commitment to continuing peace talks.
• Analysts suggest the recent violence is being used by both government supporters and detractors to advance their political agendas, with the attacks highlighting ongoing challenges in Colombia’s security landscape.