Thousands March in Support of President Gustavo Petro’s Reforms
On March 19, 2025, thousands marched in support of Colombian President Gustavo Petro, demanding Congress approve stalled health and labor reforms. Petro criticized a corrupt elite for obstructing changes that would benefit workers. His administration faces declining approval and internal crises, highlighting the challenges to his reformist agenda.
On March 19, 2025, a significant demonstration took place in Colombia as President Gustavo Petro rallied thousands of supporters in major cities, including Bogotá and Medellín. This march aimed to pressure Congress to approve stalled health and labor reforms. Despite being the first leftist president in the nation’s history, Petro struggles to advance his reform agenda, with his term nearing its conclusion.
Petro’s march was not just a display of support; it represented his urgency to fulfill key promises and establish a lasting political legacy. He has expressed that he cannot run for elections in 2026 and seeks to strengthen support for a yet-to-be-announced successor. The president attributes the obstruction of reforms to influential business sectors. Proposed reforms include better compensations for employees working during unsociable hours.
During the rally in Bogotá’s Plaza de Bolívar, Petro accused a corrupt “oligarchy” of betraying the Colombian populace for greed. He criticized Congress for neglecting the people’s needs and called for a referendum on the proposed reforms, although its approval in Congress appears unlikely. Protesters like pensioner Edgar Sanchez voiced concerns for the future generations, advocating for fair work conditions reminiscent of historically better labor standards.
Many supporters echoed Sanchez’s sentiments. For instance, Maritza Rodríguez, a teacher from Bogotá, argued that improved worker rights could enhance their quality of life and positively impact the economy. Amid these challenges, Petro’s approval ratings have dipped to 32%, with a disapproval rate reaching 63%, exacerbated by his perceived shortcomings in tackling narcotrafficking and corruption issues.
The president faces an additional crisis within his cabinet, having requested resignations from senior officials for failing to meet project deadlines. This included Finance Minister Diego Guevara, who announced his resignation via social media following a conversation with Petro. The unfolding political landscape signals a crucial period for Petro and his administration as they grapple with reform efforts and internal challenges.
The recent large-scale march in Colombia indicated significant public support for President Gustavo Petro’s stalled reforms, despite his low approval ratings. The rally highlights the urgency for Petro to accomplish his political objectives within the time he has left in office. Nevertheless, he grapples with internal cabinet turmoil and external opposition, evidenced by endorsements of reform from demonstrators and concerns regarding future worker rights.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
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