Colombians look set to back a peace accord with Marxist rebels in a referendum yesterday, the final hurdle for a deal that would end 52 years of war and allows Farc fighters to re-enter society and form a political party.
The plebiscite asks for a simple “yes” or “no” on whether Colombians support the accord signed on Monday by President Juan Manuel Santos, who has staked his legacy on peace, and the rebel commander known as Timochenko.
“We must end a 52-year war and open the way to peace, a peace that will take us to a better future... peace is the way to ensure our children and grandchildren have a better country,” Santos said after voting.
The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, known as Farc, whose numbers halved to about 7,000 in recent years due to a US-backed military offensive, have agreed to turn in weapons and fight for power at the ballot box instead of with bullets.
After four years of negotiations in Havana, the final agreement was applauded around the world.
Recent polls show about two-thirds of voters are likely to ratify it.
Influential former president Alvaro Uribe has led the “no” camp, arguing that rebels should pay for crimes in jail and never be given congressional seats.
But most Colombians, including some who see the accord as too soft on the Farc, seem convinced that an imperfect peace is better than more war.
“This country needs a change and it has to be today, Fabiel Cruz, 31, an administrator, said after voting yes.
“It’s the only chance we have. If it’s not today it will be never.”