Words from Jaime Garzón to Never Forget

Jaime Hernando Garzón Forero (Bogotá, October 24, 1960 – Bogotá, August 13, 1999) was a Colombian lawyer, educator, comedian, actor, radio announcer, journalist, politician, political activist, and peace mediator. In addition to his work in television and radio, he served as a peace negotiator and held several public offices in the Sumapaz district, the 20th locality of Bogotá, during the administration of Mayor Andrés Pastrana Arango (1988–1990) and the presidency of César Gaviria Trujillo (1990–1994). His entry into the national media made him a well-known figure and a pioneer of political humor on Colombian television. His career and close ties to prominent figures placed him at a key juncture in the peace processes between armed groups and in the efforts to free hostages held by the FARC. Garzón repeatedly informed the public that he was receiving threats. On August 13, 1999, he was finally assassinated by two hitmen near the Radionet studios where he worked. During the legal proceedings, the defense argued that the investigation had been obstructed by the Administrative Department of Security (DAS), a Colombian government agency with suspiciously close ties to important politicians and institutions such as the military. The death of Jaime Garzón, along with the events during the siege and recapture of the Palace of Justice in Bogotá and the assassination of Luis Carlos Galán, constitutes one of the greatest and most enigmatic mysteries in recent Colombian history.