Colombian rebels-turned-politicians sworn into Congress

Colombian rebels-turned-politicians sworn into Congress

BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Eight former Colombian rebels who once battled the government with rifles and bombs have been sworn into Congress.

The ex-combatants with the former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia took their seats in Congress for the first time Friday.

Colombia's historic peace agreement ending more than five decades of bloody conflict guarantees the one-time guerrillas 10 seats in Congress.

Two of the slated representatives are absent: One is jailed on U.S. drug charges, while the other has returned to a demobilization zone, saying he fears for his safety.

The former rebels say they want to promote peace, democracy and human rights.