Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro announced plans for a special election to address stalled labor and health reforms, urging public support against political opposition. Despite his struggles in Congress, he hopes to rally voter enthusiasm ahead of elections, but analysts question the feasibility due to potential low voter turnout and challenges faced by informal workers.
Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro addressed a rally on Tuesday, urging his supporters to rebel against opposition from centrist and right-wing politicians regarding health and labor reforms. With upcoming congressional and presidential elections next year, Petro intends to push for a special election, known as a popular consultation, to allow voters to approve or reject proposed reforms that have stalled in Congress due to political disagreements.
In his half-hour speech, Petro criticized members of Congress, describing them as “monarchs and tyrants” who exploit the populace for monetary gain. Having faced significant challenges in passing legislation in the Senate—where his Historical Pact movement holds only a fifth of the seats—Petro provided a day off for national government workers to participate in the protests.
Thousands gathered in Bolivar Square, where Petro called for voters to penalize legislators favoring corporate interests, urging them to challenge corruption.
The proposed special election requires Senate approval and a minimum turnout of one third of registered voters, approximately 13 million, for its results to be valid. Analysts suggest convincing enough voters to participate will be challenging, though the election could invigorate Petro’s supporters ahead of the March congressional elections.
Political analyst Sergio Guzman commented that the government seems to be deflecting blame for its lack of consensus in Congress, using the reforms as a pivotal reason for seeking continued power. During his campaign in 2022, Petro advocated for a health system overhaul by placing a government agency in charge instead of insurance firms, which he accuses of mishandling funds. However, legislators argue this would empower government agencies too much and doubt the administration’s capacity.
Petro’s labor reform package, which sought to enhance pay for nighttime workers and restrict short-term contracts, faced setbacks as it was sidelined during a critical vote. Critics claim such measures might increase unemployment while over 55% of Colombian workers remain in the informal sector, lacking labor contracts. They argue Petro’s reforms may deter companies from hiring informal workers.
President Gustavo Petro is advocating for major reforms in Colombia’s labor and health sectors, struggling against opposition from entrenched political interests. The call for a special election seeks to empower voters to affirm or reject stalled legislation. However, analysts remain doubtful about voter turnout and the potential effectiveness of such measures, particularly in light of the status of informal work in the country.
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