Parliamentarians for Global Action (PGA) expresses its deep concern and condemnation of the death threats against Rep. Ivan Cepeda, a well respected Colombian parliamentarian and human rights defender, as well as against Bogota Mayor Gustavo Petro and human rights defender Dr. Alirio Uribe Muñoz.

In addition, PGA deplores the information received regarding the "Andromeda operation" which allowed illegal interceptions of communications of Rep. Ivan Cepeda along with several persons involved in the Colombian peace negotiations taking place in Cuba between the government and the FARC. These alleged activities constitute a threat to the peace process which needs to be embraced by all actors in order for it to be stable and durable as recognised by the participants in the PGA Annual Forum, held on 9-10 December 2013 in the Parliament of Colombia

We call upon relevant Colombian authorities to take all necessary measures to ensure the security and protection of Rep. Ivan Cepeda, and of human rights defenders in general, according to their international and national obligations. We also call upon the Fiscal General de la Nacion (Attorney General) Mr. Lynett to immediately investigate and prosecute the authors of the death threat against Rep. Ivan Cepeda and of the illegal interceptions of his communications.

Death threats to human rights defenders--and in particular to parliamentarians who are democratically-elected representatives of the people--are a threat to freedom and democracy that must be vigourously rejected by all and treated with the utmost urgency by national authorities.

PGA stands in solidarity with Rep. Ivan Cepeda and his family, and reiterates its strong support to the peace process in Colombia as well as to the people and the representatives of the democratic institutions of Colombia.

On behalf of the PGA Executive Committee,
Mr. Ross Robertson, MP - Deputy Speaker (New Zealand), President of PGA
Ms. Minou Tavarez Mirabal, MP - Chair of the International Council