The cancellation of the festivities in El Peñol uncovered a public order crisis that led to the massive displacement of more than 140 families.
The tension that has been felt for months in El Peñol, Nariño, finally erupted into a crisis that today has dozens of families leaving their homes. The cancellation of the Black and White Carnival and all the December festivities not only meant the suspension of a centuries-old tradition, but also revealed the seriousness of public order in this municipality, increasingly pressured by the presence of armed actors who dispute control of the territory.
What initially seemed like a preventative measure ended up revealing a deeper drama. This Monday at least 140 families undertook forced displacement towards Pasto, seeking refuge from the growing violence. And the number could increase. One of the displaced inhabitants told La FM the magnitude of the fear that exists in the area:
“There is already a displacement. The families that live near the Police station are already leaving. Other neighborhoods will do the same. We will be between 200 and 300 families moving massively towards Pasto. Fear no longer allows us to work or move freely. After 6 or 7 at night, the municipality is desolate.”
The testimony reflects an unsustainable reality. During November, El Peñol was the scene of a attack with explosives against the Police Station, clashes between armed groups and the public force, and a frustrated attempt to attack the Army with a motorcycle loaded with explosives. The population assures that the presence of illegal groups surrounded their daily lives and left them trapped between bullets and silence.
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A historic and painful decision
The Mayor’s Office of El Peñol confirmed the cancellation of all end-of-year festivities and the 2026 Black and White Carnival, a measure that has only one precedent: in 1979, when a tsunami hit Tumaco and the celebrations were suspended to address the emergency. That is to say, This is only the second time that El Peñol has canceled a party that for Nariño is a symbol of identity, cultural resistance and community unity.
The decision was not only made for security reasons: invited artists canceled, logistics became unsustainable and the authorities could not guarantee minimum conditions to hold the events.
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Blow to culture and social fabric
The suspension directly impacts artists, bodybuilders, musicians, craftsmen and troupes who have been preparing their participation for years. Culture, which has always been a refuge from violence in Nariño, is hit again.
In Pasto, city where the Carnival is Intangible Cultural Heritage of HumanityAccording to UNESCO, the authorities are preparing to receive the displaced families and provide support amid the widespread fear that is growing in the region.
El Peñol not only canceled its celebrations: lost his peacemobility, work and community life. Today, while Families advance towards Pasto Seeking protection, the municipality remains silent, marked by fear and waiting for answers that will stop the violence that expelled it.
Source: Integrated Information System
