Without an independent justice system there is no rule of law. Without respect for the judiciary by the ruler is in question the rule of law. Without compliance with judicial decisions by other public authorities undermines the rule of law.

Court decisions they can appeal and for that are the courts. But to question the judicial independence using the popularity of the ruling only further weakens the languid democratic institutions.

The conviction of the Third Criminal Court of Bogota Specialized against Colonel (r) Luis Alfonso Plazas Vega for the forced disappearance of eleven Colombian citizens is a landmark ruling that struck impunity and military interests that lie behind it.

Plazas was not convicted for the retaking of the Palace of Justice. Plazas Vega was convicted of forced disappearance, for their part in the disappearance of defenseless citizens in the days of the takeover of the Palace of Justice.

Activation of the solidarity of the body of the military and the ruling bloc is a call to impunity.

Squares have the right to appeal the ruling of the court and the government, along with the military, are obliged to respect the course of justice.

The hysteria of the government and the military is a reflection of their fear for the advancement of justice in this and other cases. Pending a ruling involving the general Arias Cabrales and a group of officers and NCOs, also for the case of the Palace of Justice. And the case is progressing rapidly and pikes of false positives.

Colombia needs more justice and less impunity. Colombia needs to strengthen democracy, not weaken, putting political power in the service of impunity.