Released FARC hostage Marcos Baquero has given his first interview since being returned to his family, media reported Thursday.
Baquero spoke of the deplorable environment in which he was kept, stating, “not even on my own worst enemy would I wish those conditions.” He admitted that at times he felt who he couldn’t go on anymore, reported W Radio.
His relations with the guerrillas in the camp were kept on a superficial level, said to Baquero. While there were moments when he could converse with his guards, he was for the most part alone. As a result, he said, he found unique companionship in the form of a cat who he made his pet and baptized “Jeffrey.”
Baquero said that he contemplated fleeing his captors but the opportunity never presented itself because of his remote location.
The former captive emphasised the need to continue fighting for liberation because “it is worth it for our country and for those communities that require it.”
He finished by stating that he will seek to finish his education in public administration – one that was cut short by his kidnapping in 2009 – and pursue a career in civil service.
Baquero was released by the FARC on Wednesday after a delegation consisting of mediator Piedad Cordoba, members of her Colombians for Peace group, and the Red Cross met him at an secret release site.
He is the first of five hostages to be released this week, the operation continues tomorrow with the expected liberation of two more hostages. The final two hostages are due to be freed on Sunday.