Bogotá.- Former Colombian President Gustavo Petro asked members of his party, the Historic Pact, and his supporters this Monday to coordinate efforts and activate solidarity with those affected by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that shook much of the country and has left a partial death toll of 111 people.
“To all members of the Pact, to those who have accompanied and supported us, I call on you to coordinate efforts, activate solidarity, and remain attentive to the affected communities,” Petro expressed in a message posted on his social media.
The former president expressed his solidarity with the communities of San José del Palmar, Río Iró, Nóvita, and Quibdó, in the Chocó department, in the Pacific; and Chaparral, Coello, Payandé, and Ibagué, in the Tolima region (center); as well as those affected in the cities of Pereira, Manizales, Armenia, Cali, and Bogotá.
“The national government must guarantee an immediate, coordinated, and humane response: search and rescue, medical attention, assisted evacuation, temporary housing, water, food, and support for the affected families,” Petro pointed out.
In that sense, the former head of state, who last Friday handed over the country’s presidency to the far-right Abelardo de la Espriella, stressed the need for the state’s response to reach all affected territories, especially the most vulnerable populations.
“No one can be left behind”
“In a national emergency, there can be no forgotten territories or second-class citizens. The State must reach those who need it most first,” emphasized Petro, who added that “the full capacity of the State must be put at the service of the people.”
“No one can be left behind,” concluded the progressive leader.
The 7.4 magnitude earthquake shook a large part of Colombia this Monday, leaving at least 111 people dead so far and causing serious damage in at least five departments, while relief agencies continue search and rescue efforts, and authorities proceed with damage assessments.
