Colombians Protest Against President Petro’s Proposed Reforms in Major Demonstrations

On November 23, 2024, thousands of Colombians protested in Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali against President Gustavo Petro’s proposed reforms, citing corruption and dissatisfaction. The protests, marked by demonstrators carrying flags and signs, included retired military officials and opposition lawmakers. President Petro characterized the protests as a threat to democracy, asserting that only 20,000 participated and accusing them of attempting to destabilize the government. This unrest reflects ongoing discontent with his administration since he took office in 2022.

On November 23, 2024, thousands of Colombians converged in major cities such as Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali to vocally oppose the reforms proposed by President Gustavo Petro. The demonstrators, including retired military personnel and opposition lawmakers, expressed their discontent with the government’s handling of health, labor, and pension reforms, accusing the administration of corruption. Signs displayed by protesters reflected their sentiments with messages like “No to Petro reforms” and “No to labor reforms.”

During the protests, Luis Carlos Hernández shared his sentiments, stating, “I never expected to have to take to the streets to protest, to give my voice of rejection to this corruption,” referring contemptuously to Petro’s supporters. President Petro responded to the demonstrations by asserting that the protest was an attempt to destabilize his government, claiming the number of participants was exaggerated and only around 20,000 took part. He characterized the protests as an affront to the democratic process, stating, “In Colombia, we will stop the coup d’état.” This recent outpouring of opposition marks a significant escalation in protests that have been ongoing since Petro assumed office in 2022, signifying a growing dissent against his proposed reforms and governance.

The ongoing protests in Colombia represent a significant challenge to President Gustavo Petro’s administration. Since taking office in 2022, Petro, a former leftist guerrilla, has advocated for various reforms, particularly in the health, labor, and pension sectors. These reforms have been met with increasing resistance from segments of the population who perceive them as detrimental and symptomatic of broader issues, including corruption within the administration. The protest on November 23, 2024, is positioned in the context of escalating demonstrations that reflect a persistent dissatisfaction with President Petro’s policy trajectory.

The protests that took place in Colombia against President Gustavo Petro’s reforms illustrate a growing wave of discontent among citizens regarding his administration’s policies. The demonstrators’ criticisms focus on perceived corruption and inadequate governance, particularly concerning proposed reforms in public services. As opposition mounting gradually builds, President Petro faces significant challenges in consolidating support and advancing his reform agenda amidst increasing scrutiny and protest activities.

Original Source: apnews.com