Crónica. GA3-240202501-AA1-EV03.

 Crónica

 José Félix Lafaurie Rivera The Conservative Voice of Colombian Agrarian Politics José Félix Lafaurie has long stood as one of the most prominent and controversial figures in Colombian public life. As the president of the Federación Colombiana de Ganaderos (FEDEGÁN), he has used his platform to advocate for the interests of cattle ranchers, promote conservative agrarian policies, and voice staunch opposition to leftist reforms. His career is a compelling intersection of politics, economics, and ideology in Colombia’s rural landscape. Born into a traditional Colombian family, Lafaurie pursued engineering before moving into public service and agribusiness leadership. His rise to national prominence coincided with Colombia’s internal struggles over land reform, conflict with guerrilla groups, and the broader battle for rural development. A skilled communicator, he became known for his articulate—if polarizing— commentaries in media and political circles. Lafaurie’s tenure at FEDEGÁN has been marked by fierce defense of private property rights and critiques of peace processes that, in his view, undermine legal landholders. His position hardened during negotiations with the FARC, where he often clashed with progressive voices advocating for land redistribution and reparations. In a surprising twist, President Gustavo Petro—Colombia’s first leftist president—appointed Lafaurie as part of the government's peace negotiation team with the ELN. This move showcased Lafaurie’s undeniable influence and the political maturity of involving ideological opponents in national dialogues. Beyond his public roles, Lafaurie is also known as the husband of María Fernanda Cabal, a conservative senator and key figure in Colombian rightwing politics. Together, they represent a powerful political partnership advocating for traditional values, national sovereignty, and economic liberalism. Love him or loathe him, José Félix Lafaurie remains a central character in the ongoing story of Colombia’s rural transformation. His voice—clear, forceful, and unapologetically conservative—continues to shape the debate on how peace, progress, and property should be balanced in a country still healing from decades of conflict.