Abelardo de la Espriella eases gun control, allows 700,000 permits in Colombia

Colombia's President Abelardo de la Espriella has signed a decree that relaxes restrictions on carrying legal firearms in public. This decision comes in the wake of his campaign promise to adopt a tougher stance on crime. De la Espriella argued that it is unjust for law-abiding citizens to be unarmed while criminals possess weapons freely.

The decree lifts a suspension on carrying firearms that has been in place since December 2015. Initially intended as a temporary measure to enhance security during the holiday season, the suspension was extended each year by former President Juan Manuel Santos and his successors, Iván Duque and Gustavo Petro. Under the previous law, even individuals with permits for firearms were required to seek additional authorization to carry their guns outside their homes.

De la Espriella emphasized that his administration would maintain strict controls over gun ownership and that the decree would not lead to a chaotic environment where anyone could carry a weapon. Approximately 700,000 people with legal permits for firearms will now be able to carry their guns in public, as long as their permits are current. Critics, including Green Alliance Party Senator Ariel Ávila, have condemned the move, suggesting it could result in legally owned guns falling into the hands of criminals.

The president has countered concerns about public safety by highlighting ongoing efforts to target illegal firearms. So far this year, Colombian authorities have confiscated over 15,000 illegal guns, mainly from factions such as the Farc rebel group and the Gulf Clan criminal organization. De la Espriella believes that his decree will empower citizens without compromising national security, even as opponents warn of potential consequences for public safety.