Colombian President Gustavo Petro has announced plans for a special election to allow voters to decide on stalled labor and health reforms. He criticized the Senate for rejecting his proposals, which aim to reform the nation’s health system and labor laws. The popular consultation requires Senate approval and participation from a third of registered voters to be valid.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced his intention to call a special election allowing voters to approve or reject labor and health reform proposals that have stalled in Congress. During a televised address, he criticized the Senate for “mocking” the electorate and siding with the nation’s “oligarchy,” thereby impeding necessary reforms.
Surrounded by supporters, President Petro urged mobilization in favor of his administration’s initiatives. He stated, “We have searched in our constitution for a path that will enable people to make decisions without intermediaries,” emphasizing the importance of direct citizen involvement in decision-making.
This announcement follows a statement from eight senators declaring their rejection of the proposed health reform. The president has encountered difficulties passing legislation in Congress, where his party does not hold a majority.
During his 2022 presidential campaign, Petro promised significant changes to Colombia’s health system, including plans to eliminate insurance companies and establish a government agency for fund administration. He accuses these companies of mismanaging substantial finances, yet opposition legislators argue his reform could lead to excessive government control and inefficiency.
Additionally, President Petro faces challenges regarding labor reform, which seeks to increase pay for night workers and restrict short-term hiring practices. The proposed special election, referred to in Colombian law as a “popular consultation,” requires a majority approval from the Senate to proceed and mandates participation from at least one-third of registered voters for the results to be valid.
In conclusion, President Gustavo Petro’s call for a special election marks a significant step toward engaging Colombian citizens in deciding on stalled labor and health reforms. His efforts reveal persistent challenges in advancing his legislative agenda within a divided Congress. The outcome of the proposed popular consultation may potentially shape the future of Colombia’s crucial reform efforts, provided it garners the necessary legislative support and public participation.
Original Source: apnews.com
