The National Government's Delegation in Buenaventura has asked illegal armed groups not to interfere in the March 8 legislative elections. The call targets bands such as Los Shottas, Los Espartanos, and Los Chiquillos, as part of the Paz Urbana policy. The aim is to ensure a peaceful voting day for the port's residents.
In Cali on March 2, 2026, the National Government's Delegation in Buenaventura's Socio-Juridical Space issued a statement to the illegal armed groups operating in the special district of Valle del Cauca. Fabio Cardozo, head of the Space on behalf of President Gustavo Petro's government, requested a formal and public pronouncement of non-interference in the electoral process.
The request is based on the public peace policy, Law 2272 of 2022, and Presidential Resolution 211 of 2023, which recognizes the Shottas and Espartanos structures. The document stresses the need for a clear and verifiable commitment not to interfere in elections to the Congress of the Republic, interparty consultations, presidential elections, and Community Action Boards. It also demands respect for the life, integrity, and freedom of communities.
This call comes days before the legislative elections on Sunday, March 8. The previous week, a follow-up meeting on the Paz Urbana process took place, where advances were presented and new commitments were built between the government and the involved bands. The initiative aims to allow Buenaventura residents to exercise their political rights freely and safely.
