CASE No - Inter-Parliamentary Union

- 2 - CL/183/SR.1
ANNEX XV
Recalling that Mr. Borja has been a strong and persistent advocate for a peaceful solution to
the conflict in Colombia,
1. Is deeply concerned at the reportedly recurring problems in Mr. Borja's security detail; can
but consider that the failed attempt on his life shows that his protection has to be taken
extremely seriously and that, by not addressing his complaints diligently and swiftly, the
authorities are responsible for putting him at great and unnecessary risk; urges the
Colombian authorities to ensure, as is their duty, that an effective security arrangement is
in place for Mr. Borja at all times; wishes to receive confirmation on this point;
2. Expresses deep concern about the actual enforcement of prison sentences in the case of the
attack on Mr. Borja's life; considers that the escape in suspicious circumstances of the army
Major bearing chief responsibility for the crime and the limited action to hold those
responsible to account, together with the proposed reduction of sentence for two convicts
on highly contested grounds, raise doubts about how sincerely the authorities are seeking
to ensure full justice in this case; considers that, as the main convicts were serving or
former members of the armed forces, the authorities have an even greater responsibility to
ensure that they are indeed serving their sentences, and urges them to take all necessary
measures to this end; would greatly appreciate receiving further information in this respect;
3. Is deeply concerned that the criminal investigation instituted against Mr. Borja is taking
place in a climate in which, along with other vocal opponents to the current government,
he is publicly discredited and, in disrespect of the presumption of innocence, is labelled a
FARC associate before any court of law has ruled on these serious accusations; calls on the
authorities to refrain from making such statements and to let justice take it course; trusts
that the investigation and proceedings are carried out diligently and independently and
that they fully respect Mr. Borja's rights; wishes to be informed of the precise accusations,
and the facts underpinning them, against Mr. Borja and the stage reached in the
proceedings before the Supreme Court;
4. Considers that the Congress of Colombia has a special responsibility to ensure that its
members can exercise their parliamentary mandate free of any threat or intimidation, and
therefore calls upon Congress to do everything in its power to ensure due administration of
justice in all proceedings relating to Mr. Borja, and the provision of appropriate security
arrangement for him; would greatly appreciate receiving information on any steps taken in
this respect, including by the Committee on Accusations of the House of Representatives,
on Mr. Borja's complaint;
5. Requests the Secretary General to convey this resolution to the competent authorities and
to the source;
6. Requests the Committee to continue examining this case and report to it at its next session,
to be held on the occasion of the 120 th Assembly of the IPU (April 2009).