Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has signed a decree that eases restrictions on the public carrying of legal firearms, fulfilling a campaign promise to allow citizens to defend themselves against armed criminals. The decree lifts a suspension that has been in place for ten years, which previously required individuals with a permit to carry a gun to obtain additional authorization to do so outside their homes.
De la Espriella stated that the measure is not intended to create a free-for-all and that strict controls on gun ownership will remain. He argued that it was "not right that criminals are armed to the teeth while decent people can't defend themselves." The president emphasized that this action upholds his commitment, stating, "A man's word is his honor, and I have honor, that's why I keep my word."
The original restriction on carrying legal firearms in public was implemented in December 2015 by then-President Juan Manuel Santos, intended as a temporary security measure during the holiday season. However, the suspension was subsequently extended annually by subsequent administrations, including those of conservative Iván Duque and left-wing Gustavo Petro.
According to reports, the new decree will impact approximately 700,000 individuals in Colombia who already possess legal permits to carry firearms. These individuals will now be permitted to carry their registered weapons outside their homes, provided their permits are current.
Despite the president's assurances, the move has drawn criticism. Senator Ariel Ávila of the Green Alliance Party described the decision as a "grave error," expressing concern that legally held firearms could fall into the hands of criminals. Ávila also raised an ethical point, suggesting that only state forces should be armed to ensure public security.
President de la Espriella countered these concerns by asserting that the decree would not negatively affect national security. He highlighted the government's efforts to combat illegal firearms, noting that over 15,000 weapons have been seized this year. He indicated that many of these confiscated firearms were linked to dissident factions of the Farc rebel group and the Gulf Clan criminal organization.