Violent Protests Erupt at National University of Colombia Over New Rector

Violent protests and clashes break out at the National University of Colombia in Bogotá on the day of the inauguration of the new rector, José Ismael Peña. The unrest leads to the closure of several TransMilenio stations, disrupting public transportation and affecting thousands of commuters.

Why this matters: The violent protests and clashes at the National University of Colombia highlight the deep-seated divisions and discontent among students regarding the leadership and direction of the institution, which can have far-reaching implications for the country's education system and social stability. The incident also raises concerns about the safety and security of students and commuters, and the ability of authorities to maintain order in the face of unrest.

The demonstrations begin around 4:00 pm near the Alma Mater, with hooded protesters clashing with the Public Force (formerly ESMAD). Blockades are set up, suspending bus service on the Troncal del Dorado and forcing the closure of the Calle 45 station. Protesters state that the blockades occur because "it is not a legitimate election" of the new rector.

The situation escalates when hooded men attempt to set fire to the Ciudad Universitaria de Transmilenio station, leaving traces of fire in various parts of the ticket office. Fortunately, the station does not catch fire, but it remains closed because of the damage. The Transmilenio company reports that the nearby Corferias station is enabled as an alternative.

The protests and blockades cause significant disruptions to public transportation in the area. A mixed exit is implemented from Carrera 40 to Carrera 33 towards the east and in contraflow towards the west from 6:35 pm on Av. El Dorado. Several SITP routes, including 191, 599, H606, H608, H708, SE14, T11, T26, and T163, are forced to divert their routes to avoid the affected areas.

In response to the unrest, units of Civil Agents and the Bogotá Traffic Secretary carry out traffic regulation maneuvers in the area to restore mobility. The blockade remains on El Dorado Avenue (26th Street) with Carrera 33, in both directions, causing inconvenience to thousands of public transportation users who are forced to walk several blocks to access alternative transportation.

The riots at the National University are sparked by the election of José Ismael Peña to be the new rector. A sector of the student community rejects the election, citing violations of their rights and a lack of legitimacy in the process. The university directives declare a red alert on campus and suspend classes indefinitely in response to the presence of explosive material in the facilities.

The Bogotá Metropolitan Police launches an investigation to identify those responsible for the acts of vandalism and the attempted arson at the TransMilenio station. This is not the first time there have been confrontations between hooded protesters and public forces in the external sectors of the National University in recent months, highlighting the ongoing tensions within the university community.

The events at the National University of Colombia highlight the deep divisions and discontent among some students regarding the leadership and direction of the institution. Police investigation continues into the acts of vandalism and attempted arson, the university administration faces the challenge of addressing the concerns raised by protesters while working to restore stability and resume normal operations on the conflict-ridden campus.

Key Takeaways

• Violent protests erupt at National University of Colombia over new rector's election.
• Protesters clash with police, set up blockades, and attempt to set fire to TransMilenio station.
• Several TransMilenio stations closed, disrupting public transportation and affecting thousands.
• University declares red alert, suspends classes indefinitely due to explosive material on campus.
• Police investigate acts of vandalism and attempted arson, university faces challenge to restore stability.