The Washington Office on Latin America is deeply heartened by the release of the two hostages, Clara Rojas, an aide to former Colombian presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt, and former Colombian congresswoman Consuelo González de Perdomo, in Colombia by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) guerrillas.
Press Release
WASHINGTON OFFICE ON LATIN AMERICA
Promoting Human Rights, Democracy, and Social and Economic Justice in Latin America
WOLA Welcomes Colombian Hostage Release
January 10, 2007
The Washington Office on Latin America is deeply heartened by the release of the two hostages, Clara Rojas, an aide to former Colombian presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt, and former Colombian congresswoman Consuelo González de Perdomo, in Colombia by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) guerrillas.
We commend the many governments and individuals who played crucial roles in winning the release of these hostages, including Colombian Senator Piedad Córdoba and the government of Venezuela.
In learning of the release, Joy Olson, WOLA's Executive Director said, "Many hurdles were overcome by all parties involved in securing the release of these two hostages. This proves that it can be done."
WOLA hopes that the release of the captives, which was preceded by the patient and persistent intervention of concerned governments and individuals, will be the first step towards creating a climate conducive to a humanitarian exchange and, eventually, peace negotiations between the Colombian government and the FARC insurgency.
"Let's not forget that there are still hundreds being held, including three Americans," said Olson, referring to defense contractors Marc Gonsalves, Keith Stansell and Thomas Howes, held by FARC guerrillas since 2003. The suffering of the hostages held by the FARC, as well as the anguish felt by their family members, can end only with the immediate release of those remaining in captivity.
Contact:
Gimena Sanchez, Senior Associate for Colombia, (202) 797-2171 or (202) 489-1702