Colombia’s Senate Approves Controversial Labor Reform Bill
Colombia’s Senate approved a labor reform bill designed to improve working conditions and extend benefits, following President Petro’s push for a public referendum to legitimize it. This marks a vital achievement for Petro, despite previous rejections. Opposition claims the referendum is politically motivated, and its legality is still under judicial review.
Colombia’s Senate has taken a significant step by approving a controversial labor reform bill this past Tuesday. This comes after leftist President Gustavo Petro moved to initiate a referendum to garner public support for the legislation. In a vote tallying 57 in favor and 31 opposed, the bill introduces several noteworthy changes, including an earlier end to the working day at 6:00 PM and extending social security coverage to more informal workers, along with establishing a pension fund for farmers.
The approval of this bill is seen as a crucial victory for President Petro, who has faced ongoing challenges in fulfilling his campaign promises since making history as Colombia’s first leftist leader in 2022. Interestingly, the Senate had previously dismissed this reform in April, but Petro’s warning about a potential referendum helped revive the discussion. Notably, this legislative achievement occurred in the absence of opposition senator Miguel Uribe, who has been hospitalized in serious condition since being shot during a campaign event on June 7.
Additionally, the Senate once again rejected the government’s attempt to hold a referendum on the labor reform initiative. This attempt was initially defeated back in May, but President Petro has since announced a 12-question referendum scheduled for August 7. He maintains that this referendum is still valid until Congress ratifies his reform. Yet, the constitutional court has yet to determine whether Petro has the legal authority to call for such a referendum by decree.
Public response has seen thousands of supporters marching in major Colombian cities in late May, though the turnout did not meet expectations. Opposition leaders argue that the costly referendum could primarily serve to enhance Petro’s party’s position in the run-up to the 2026 elections, as he is not eligible to run for re-election himself.
The Colombian Senate’s approval of the labor reform is a pivotal moment for President Gustavo Petro, who continues to navigate a challenging political landscape. The changes to labor laws, particularly the adjustment of working hours and improved social security benefits, signify an important shift. However, rising opposition concerns about a potentially self-serving referendum underscore the complexities surrounding this reform. As the legal viability of the referendum awaits judicial review, the political ramifications for future elections could be substantial.
Original Source: www.bssnews.net
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