Thousands rallied across Colombia in support of President Gustavo Petro’s stalled health and labor reforms. Major cities witnessed demonstrators showing their solidarity, as Petro seeks to fulfill campaign promises before the end of his term. Criticism of business interests impeding reforms and calls for a referendum were prominent themes at the demonstrations.
On Tuesday, thousands of supporters of Colombia’s leftist president, Gustavo Petro, marched to demonstrate support for his stalled health and labor reforms. The marches occurred in major cities, including Bogota and Medellin, where demonstrators blocked streets, waved flags, and chanted slogans advocating for the president’s agenda.
Gustavo Petro, who is the first leftist president in Colombia’s history, faces challenges in advancing significant portions of his reform agenda through Congress. With just over a year remaining in his four-year term, he is under pressure to fulfill his campaign promises and solidify his political legacy.
Petro, who cannot seek re-election in 2026, aims to harness populist support for these reforms to strengthen his political movement and potentially benefit his yet-to-be-named successor. On the day of the march, he was expected to appear in Bogota’s Plaza de Bolivar, a central location in the capital.
At the rally in Bogota, one poster declared, “The people are with you.” Petro has criticized influential business sectors for obstructing the proposed reforms, which would provide additional compensation for workers operating during nights, Sundays, or public holidays.
Protestor Edgar Sanchez expressed hopes for future generations, stating he protested for the restoration of benefits he once enjoyed, such as “eight-hour workdays, night pay, and an end to outsourcing.” Additionally, Petro has proposed a referendum on these reforms, although it seems unlikely to gain approval in Congress.
The recent marches in support of President Gustavo Petro highlight the ongoing struggle for substantial labor and health reforms in Colombia. As Petro confronts significant opposition in Congress and navigates his remaining time in office, the growing public support may play a crucial role in shaping both his political legacy and future policies.
Original Source: 24newshd.tv
