President Gustavo Petro has called for continuous protests in support of a labor referendum to improve work conditions in Colombia. During a protest in Bogota, he criticized lawmakers opposed to the labor reform and called for public mobilization to pressure the Senate into action. Analysts anticipate a potential referendum could occur in six months if discussions are allowed.
President Gustavo Petro has urged his supporters to orchestrate ongoing demonstrations advocating for a labor referendum aimed at enhancing working conditions in Colombia. This appeal was made during a significant protest in Bogota, where thousands expressed their dissent against the decision of a Senate commission to reject the government’s labor reform proposal.
As the 14-member commission deliberated on the labor reform, President Petro articulated his disappointment in the lawmakers who opposed the initiative. He accused them of betraying the people, characterizing their actions as servitude to financial interests over community welfare and basic human needs, such as fair wages and pensions for women after raising children.
Petro emphasized the need for the populace to rise against what he termed tyrannical senators, proclaiming that the people possess the power to dismiss them. He reiterated his call for ongoing and escalating protests, stressing that these efforts are crucial to compel the Senate to authorize a legally binding referendum regarding labor reform’s provisions.
The president noted that the mobilization, which he described as both permanent and increasingly vigorous, is set to culminate in a crucial event within the Senate, where each senator must realize their role as representatives of the people. Political analysts suggest that, barring unexpected developments, a referendum could be arranged within a six-month timeframe if the Senate commission permits further discussions on the labor reform proposal.
In summary, President Gustavo Petro’s call for continuous protests reflects his commitment to advocating improved labor conditions in Colombia. His rhetoric highlights the perceived betrayal by certain lawmakers and the necessity for public mobilization to influence the Senate’s decision concerning the proposed labor reform. The forthcoming months may be pivotal as efforts to secure a labor referendum continue to unfold.
Original Source: colombiareports.com
