Colombia's Interior Ministry categorically rejected threats and intimidation denounced against the Yukpa indigenous people in Sokorpha by the Becerril Mayor's Office. The Government stressed that differences must be resolved through dialogue and institutional mechanisms, not violence. No indigenous authority is officially recognized in the resguardo while legal appeals are processed.
The Interior Ministry voiced firm rejection of the threats, acts of intimidation, and forceful actions reported in the territory of the Yukpa indigenous people of Sokorpha. This complaint comes from the Becerril Municipal Mayor's Office in Cesar department, where tensions are ongoing.
The national Government insisted that any internal controversies among indigenous peoples or with territorial authorities must be handled solely through dialogue, mutual respect, and mechanisms outlined in the Constitution and law. It completely ruled out the use of violence or pressures that endanger lives, integrity, and peaceful coexistence.
It is important to note that, to date, no indigenous authority is officially recognized in the Sokorpha resguardo. This stems from ongoing proceedings on appeals for reconsideration and, subsidiarily, appeals against Resolution No. 260 of 2025, which made decisions on recognizing traditional authorities. The Ministry is reviewing these under principles of administrative due process and the right to defense.
While a final decision is pending, the Ministry urged Yukpa sectors in Sokorpha and the broader community to refrain from extralegal actions, keep dialogue channels open, and uphold peaceful coexistence, territorial harmony, and respect for institutions.
The Ministry remains available to support and foster intercultural dialogue spaces, ensuring the collective rights of the indigenous people, respect for their autonomy, and adherence to constitutional and legal order.
