It was really neat to see the 'hearts and minds' campaign at work in Colombia.
The government and the establishment really promoted the idea of a national (and international) demonstration for peace in Colombia.
There were large peace marches in every major city in Colombia, and many places around the world.
On local TV here, the marches were really played up. The message that is being sent is that 'everyone' wants the FARC to quit being bad guys and go home.
There's a lot of PR in this, but our experience in Colombia, talking with the regular people, is that they pretty much all feel that way.
We talked to one guy down in San Agustin that said "If anyone sees any rebels around, they use their cell phone and call the security forces. They are there in 15 minutes, and take them out." EVERYONE these days in Colombia has a cell phone. It would be a powerful weapon for the government if they can get the people to turn against the FARC rebels. Which it seems has happened.
We have also seen signs put up by the government "You have a right to peace."
Everyone is just damned tired of unrest and uncertainty. This country is really set to bloom, if they can just put 'the rebels' behind them.
Hola Sherry and Dave
ReplyDeleteLove your pics - just outstanding !!! NOW - if we could just get Don and Gwen to do the same !!! I don't know about you but I am dying to see the 'new' boat - they need to get a Picasa site - I mentioned it but Gwen got testy - sooooo, now it is your turn !!
Bill C
s/v Geodesic2