423. Memorandum From the Secretary of State’s Special Assistant for Intelligence (Armstrong) to the Secretary of State1
SUBJECT
- Intelligence Note: Colombia: President’s Position Deteriorates
The position of President Gustavo Rojas Pinilla of Colombia has deteriorated considerably since his seizure of power in the bloodless coup of June 13, 1953, which overthrew the authoritarian Gomez2 regime. Rojas has lost the unqualified backing of the traditionally influential groups, including the Catholic hierarchy and the long-established but not [now?] weak and divided Liberal and Conservative parties. Moreover, guerrilla activities have flared up again in several parts of the country. His ability to complete his term in office, which runs until August 1958, will depend increasingly on the loyalty of the armed forces.
An important factor in the failure of Rojas to retain the support of non-military groups has been his apparent inclination to perpetuate [Page 861] himself in power. He has repeatedly postponed restoration of constitutional governments, seriously curtailed political freedoms, and instituted drastic press and radio censorship. At the same time he has lavished special favors on the armed forces. He has failed to deal effectively with pressing social and economic problems or to implement previously announced reforms. Moreover, corruption among government officials has become widespread.