Dear David,

What an absolute joy to hear the news of your release after seven long years in prison. Your freedom is cause for celebration in Colombia and abroad, at a time when the situation for human rights defenders there is ever more dangerous and the ambitious goals of the peace process are increasingly under threat.

Walking out of the prison gates today, you will once again demonstrate to the world that sometimes, against all odds and despite the best efforts of a repressive government, justice prevails. Your release is also a tribute to your family, colleagues, and lawyers who have demonstrated an unshakable will to continue the struggle for your freedom since the day of your arrest.

From behind prison walls and long before, you and your poetry have been an inspiration to us all.

“La noche sera oscura o clara?
“Will the night be dark or bright?

Muere la noche al despertar el alba
The night dies with the breaking of dawn

Nace el día con el esplandor del aura
A day is born with the splendour of light

El firmamento para mi es cosa rara”
The firmament for me is a rare thing”

We hope this is the beginning of a new life for you and your family, and stand in solidarity with you always.

Sincerely,

Andrew Anderson, Executive Director, and all the team in Front Line Defenders