Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro mobilized thousands in a rally on March 18, 2025, to advocate for stalled health and labor reforms. This demonstration emphasized the need for legislative support against powerful business interests. As Petro’s approval rating declines, he faces significant political challenges and a cabinet crisis amid public protests.
Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro rallied thousands of supporters on March 18, 2025, in a political demonstration aimed at urging lawmakers to approve stalled health and labor reforms. Major cities such as Bogotá and Medellín witnessed demonstrators blocking streets, waving flags, and chanting slogans in support of Petro’s agenda. As the first leftist president in Colombia’s history, Petro faces challenges in passing his reform initiatives through Congress with only a year left in his term.
Petro has criticized powerful business interests for obstructing his plans that include provisions for additional pay for workers on nights, Sundays, or public holidays. At the rally in Bogotá’s Plaza de Bolívar, he accused a corrupt oligarchy of betraying the Colombian people for greed, stating, “Colombia’s Congress is turning its back on the people.” He has also called for a referendum to decide on reforms, though it is unlikely to gain legislative approval.
Protesters included individuals like Edgar Sanchez, a pensioner advocating for better working conditions for future generations, and teacher Maritza Rodríguez, who expressed concerns over employee mistreatment. Rodriguez emphasized the need for workers to improve their lifestyle to stimulate economic growth.
Despite Petro’s populist support, his political standing appears precarious, with recent polls showing an approval rating of 32 percent and a disapproval rate of 63 percent, attributed to struggles against narcotrafficking and corruption. Additionally, Petro is navigating a cabinet crisis, having requested resignations from senior officials, leading to the recent departure of Finance Minister Diego Guevara after discussions with the president.
President Gustavo Petro’s recent rally reflects his urgent push for labor and health reforms amid significant political challenges. Although he enjoys strong grassroots support, his approval ratings indicate widespread discontent with his administration. The obstacles in Congress and the ongoing cabinet crisis complicate Petro’s efforts to fulfill his reformist agenda, thereby impacting his legacy and party’s future in Colombian politics.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
