Organization of American States
www.oas.org

 

(E-038/02)

February 25, 2002

OAS SECRETARY GENERAL CONDEMNS KIDNAPPING 
OF COLOMBIAN PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE 

            The Secretary General of the Organization of American States, César Gaviria, today vigorously condemned the kidnapping of Colombian presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt. 

            Urging the kidnappers to respect Betancourt's right to life, the Secretary General called for her "immediate release." He noted that  "this act further confirms the intolerant and anti-democratic attitudes that violate the human rights demonstrated by those groups operating illegally." 

            Gaviria also reiterated that the international community and the OAS' 34 member states stand ready to close ranks in the war on terrorism.  "Through their foreign ministers, the countries of the Hemisphere have expressed their will to combat terrorism and insist on respect for human rights." 

The Secretary General added that "despite these barbaric acts by terrorists, the Colombian electoral process will prevail and will remain unshakable while upholding the tradition that has been its hallmark."