Luis Ovier González Guazorna

The body of indigenous Indigenous leader Luis Ovier González Guazorna was found half buried in the rural zone of Pueblo Rico, Risaralda.

The exact events surrounding his death remain unknown however it is speculated that the indigenous leader was intercepted on his way to his indigenous reverse on the 4th of April.

Gonzalez Guazorna, who was acting indigenous governor and was also a member of an indigenous organization known as the Guardia, was a firm defender of human rights, indigenous territory, culture, and self-determination.

González Guazorna was also an important figure within the community as a Jaibana, a traditional doctor, that worked similarly on the coffee harvest.

A fellow indigenous community leader confirmed that Gonzalez Guazorn had received, over the years, numerous threats. Importantly, other members have reported similar threats over the phone, pamphlets and other intimidation attempts. However, due to fear, they have not sought to investigate. It is suspected, however, that the threats may be related to the armed groups known t be operating in the surrounding areas.

Additionally, similar indigenous leaders state that they have asked for increased security from the government to no avail.


If you would like to provide a personal recollection, please email us at: HRDMemorial@frontlinedefenders.org

Region:Americas

Country:Colombia

Department/Province/State:Risaralda

Sex1:Male

Date of Killing:06/05/2018

Previous Threats:Yes

Gender component to killing:Killing preceded by identity-based verbal assault or harassment including threats

Type of Work:Community leader

Organisation:Indigenous Community Embera Chami

Sector or Type of Rights the HRD Worked On:ESC Rights

Sector Detail:Environmental Rights, Indigenous Peoples' Rights, Land Rights, Minority Rights, Peasant Communities

More information:Front Line Defenders

1This database records an individual's chosen gender identity. If they do not self-identify as male or female they can use the option of recording other/neither or use the term NBGI (non binary gender identity).