Colombian President Proposes Referendum on Health and Labor Reforms

Colombian President Gustavo Petro called for a referendum on stalled labor and health reforms, accusing Congress of ignoring voters. He emphasized the need for a direct decision-making process. The proposed special election would require Senate approval and aims to mobilize public support for government intervention in these sectors.

In a recent announcement, Colombian President Gustavo Petro declared his intention to hold a special election, allowing citizens to vote on proposed labor and health reforms that have faced delays in Congress. During a nationally televised address, he criticized the Colombian senate for its lack of responsiveness to the electorate and accused it of aligning with the country’s elite, hindering essential reforms.

Petro urged his supporters to rally for these reforms, emphasizing the significance of direct democracy in a constitutional framework. He stated, “We have searched in our constitution for a path that will enable people to make decisions without intermediaries. Now the people must decide if they want to be slaves or if they want to be free and respectable.”

The President’s announcement coincided with a statement from eight senators expressing Firm opposition to the health reform planned to reform the healthcare system. Petro’s party lacks a majority in Congress, complicating his goals to pass legislation effectively.

Throughout his 2022 presidential campaign, President Petro promised to overhaul Colombia’s health system by eliminating insurance companies from overseeing obligatory social security payments, proposing instead that a government agency manage these funds. Despite these intentions, legislation has repeatedly stalled due to concerns over governmental capabilities and fears of excessive bureaucratic control.

Additionally, President Petro has faced hurdles in advancing labor reforms, which include proposals for better compensation for night workers and restrictions on short-term contracts. The proposed special election, classified as a “popular consultation” under Colombian law, must receive approval from a majority in the senate. For the consultation to be valid, at least one-third of registered voters must participate in the voting process.

President Gustavo Petro is advocating for direct involvement from the Colombian populace in crucial health and labor reforms, citing a lack of action from Congress. His proposed special election could signal a pivotal moment in democratizing reform processes in Colombia, contingent upon legislative approval and substantial voter participation to effectuate change. Furthermore, the rejections faced highlight persistent political challenges within the Colombian legislative framework as his administration navigates significant policy transformations.

Original Source: apnews.com