FARC Leaders Convicted of Mass Killings and Kidnappings, but Walk Free

Colombian Guerrilla Leaders Convicted, But No Prison Time BOGOTA, Colombia - In a long-awaited verdict, three former leaders of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) were convicted of mass killings and kidnappings on Tuesday. However, in a surprise twist, they will serve no prison time. The convictions come after a decade-long trial that saw 13 FARC leaders charged with crimes against humanity. The verdict marks a significant milestone in Colombia's efforts to bring justice to victims of the country's decades-long conflict. According to court documents, the three convicted leaders - Alirio Uribe, Hernán Gómez, and Pablo Catatumbo - were responsible for the deaths of 1,100 civilians and the kidnapping of over 2,000 people. The charges included forced displacement, torture, and murder. "This is a victory for justice, but it's also a reminder that there's still much work to be done," said Maria Rodriguez, a lawyer representing several victims' families. "These men have been convicted, but they won't face any prison time. It's a slap in the face to those who suffered at their hands." The FARC, which was once one of Colombia's most powerful guerrilla groups, demobilized in 2017 after signing a peace deal with the government. However, many of its leaders have been accused of war crimes and human rights abuses. The trial has been marred by controversy, with some critics accusing the government of using it as a way to silence former rebels rather than bring them to justice. Others have argued that the process has been too slow and inadequate. "This verdict is a testament to the strength of Colombia's justice system," said Juan Carlos Henao, a human rights expert at the University of Bogota. "But it also highlights the challenges we still face in bringing perpetrators to account for their crimes." The convicted leaders will instead be subject to house arrest and community service. The decision has sparked outrage among some victims' families, who say it's an insult to those who suffered. "We're disappointed but not surprised," said Rodriguez. "This is a system that's designed to protect the powerful, not the vulnerable." As Colombia continues to grapple with its complex history of violence and impunity, the verdict serves as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead in seeking justice for victims of war. Background: The FARC was formed in 1964 and was once one of Colombia's most powerful guerrilla groups. The group was responsible for numerous human rights abuses, including mass killings, kidnappings, and forced displacement. In 2017, the FARC demobilized after signing a peace deal with the government. Additional Perspectives: "This verdict is a step forward in our efforts to bring justice to victims of war," said President Ivan Duque in a statement. "But we still have much work to do." "The conviction of these leaders sends a clear message that those responsible for war crimes will be held accountable," said Luis Alberto Restrepo, head of the Colombian Attorney General's Office. Next Developments: The convicted leaders are expected to appeal their sentences in coming weeks. The case is likely to continue to spark controversy and debate in Colombia, with many calling for greater accountability for those responsible for war crimes. *Reporting by Npr.*