Скачать или смотреть COLOMBIA: HEAD OF ARMED FORCES GENERAL HAROLD BEDOYA IS SACKED

(25 Jul 1997) Natural Sound

Colombia's controversial head of armed forces General Harold Bedoya has been sacked for what observers believe was his hard-line opposition to government peace talks with rebel organisations.

Colombian President Ernesto Samper has named army chief General Manuel Jose Bonett to take Bedoya's place.

Bedoya's dismissal on Thursday was just part of an overall reshuffle of top ranking army officials.

The dismissal on Thursday of General Harold Bedoya, commander of the Colombian army, appeared to take even the general by surprise.

He issued a statement saying he had not received any official notice terminating his appointment and, therefore, would not resign.

There was even speculation he would oppose his dismissal.

The matter was later laid to rest by President Samper who confirmed Bedoya's removal.

The appointment in Bedoya's place, of Manuel Jose Bonett Locarno, is part of an extensive overhaul of Colombia's top brass and has ended a relationship, often one of discord, between the two men.

Bedoya took command of the army in October.

Last month he said he would consider running for president if asked, at the conclusion of his military career.

The former general has opposed various government decisions including moves towards dialogue with rebel leaders.

Samper intends to set up a National Peace Council, made up of political, labour and social representatives, to resolve rebel issues while Bedoya has repeatedly called for a tougher anti-rebel line.

Human rights groups have accused Bedoya of supporting right-wing death squads.

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