Colombian President Proposes Referendum on Stalled Health and Labor Reforms

Colombian President Gustavo Petro plans a referendum for labor and health reforms stalled in congress, criticizing the senate for siding with the elite. He aims for a direct decision-making process for citizens on these proposals, facing significant legislative challenges.

On Tuesday, Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced he intends to initiate a special election allowing voters to decide on stalled labor and health reforms. In a televised address, Petro criticized the Colombian Senate for neglecting public interests and aligning with the elite by rejecting his proposed changes. Supporters, including activists and pro-government politicians, stood behind him as he urged citizens to advocate for these reforms.

Petro emphasized the need for direct decision-making by citizens, stating, “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.” This proposal follows a statement from eight senators rejecting his health reform in a significant committee vote.

Throughout his presidency, Petro has faced challenges in passing legislation due to his party’s lack of a majority in Congress. His campaign promise included overhauling Colombia’s health system by replacing private insurance companies with a government-managed agency, citing mismanagement of funds. However, legislators oppose the reform, fearing it would grant excessive authority to government entities.

In addition to health reforms, President Petro has encountered obstacles with labor reforms aimed at enhancing the rights of workers. His proposals include increased wages for night workers and restricting short-term contracts. To conduct a “popular consultation,” a majority approval from the Senate is necessary. This consultation requires voter participation of at least a third of registered voters for results to be effective.

In summary, President Gustavo Petro’s call for a referendum on labor and health reforms highlights his struggle against a resistant Senate. His commitment to empowering citizens reflects a significant aspect of his administration’s goals. However, the challenges faced in passing his proposals underscore existing tensions between governmental ambitions and legislative resistance.

Original Source: www.newsday.com