President Gustavo Petro has rallied supporters for continuous protests aimed at influencing labor reform in Colombia. Addressing a large crowd in Bogotá, Petro condemned opposing lawmakers, urging the populace to mobilize for a legally binding referendum on labor conditions. If the Senate commission does not permit discussion, a referendum may be conducted within six months.
President Gustavo Petro has called for ongoing protests to secure a popular vote aimed at improving labor conditions in Colombia. This declaration came as thousands rallied in Bogotá against the anticipated rejection of the government’s labor reform proposal by a senate commission. While that commission, comprising 14 members, debated whether to dismiss the reform, Petro emphasized the necessity of public support to hold lawmakers accountable.
Petro accused opposing lawmakers of betraying the populace by prioritizing financial interests over the welfare of citizens, particularly women who deserve fair wages and pensions. He remarked that their allegiance to greed undermines the basic rights of the community. “They have knelt before a false god, which is the god of money,” he stated, expressing that these senators neglect the well-being of those who raised families and contributed to society.
In his address, President Petro urged the public to respond with a united front, suggesting that if senators act as tyrants, the people will take action to remove them. He encouraged a mobilization effort for “permanent and growing” protests to pressure the Senate into approving a legally binding referendum regarding the labor reform. He asserted that each senator must remember their role as a mere representative of the people.
Political experts suggest that, barring an unexpected decision from the Senate commission, a referendum could be organized within six months. Petro is resolute in his call for collective action to ensure the voices of the citizens are heard in the ongoing labor reform debate.
President Gustavo Petro’s call for permanent protests highlights the urgency for citizens to advocate for better labor rights in Colombia. Through these demonstrations, Petro encourages the public to hold their senators accountable and ensure that the proposed labor reform is thoroughly considered. The proposed referendum, contingent on Senate actions, underscores the significant role of popular support in shaping labor legislation.
Original Source: colombiareports.com
