President Gustavo Petro urges for continuous protests in support of labor reform in Colombia, criticizing lawmakers for betraying public interests. He emphasizes grassroots mobilization to push for a referendum, with potential organization within six months.
President Gustavo Petro has called for ongoing protests in favor of a popular vote aimed at enhancing labor conditions in Colombia. This appeal follows a significant demonstration in Bogotá, where tens of thousands expressed their opposition to the government’s labor reform proposal, which is currently under review by a Senate commission.
During the protests, President Petro criticized opposing lawmakers, accusing them of betraying the populace. He condemned their alignment with profit motives at the expense of essential worker rights, particularly regarding fair salaries and pensions for women after their child-rearing responsibilities.
He emphasized the necessity for the populace to respond with forceful rebellion against perceived tyranny in the Senate, declaring that the people have the power to oust senators who do not represent their interests. To ensure the passage of a legally binding labor reform referendum, he urged his supporters to engage in “permanent and growing” protests to exert pressure on the Senate.
Petro asserted that the mobilization is just beginning and will intensify as the Senate convenes. He reiterated the need for senators to remain accountable to the people they serve. Political analysts suggest that, barring unforeseen developments, a referendum could be organized within six months if the Senate commission allows for plenary debate on the issue.
In summary, President Gustavo Petro has rallied his supporters to engage in sustained protests advocating for labor reforms in Colombia. His criticism of lawmakers highlights a perceived betrayal of the public’s trust and an alignment with corporate interests over worker rights. The call for permanent protests aims to influence the Senate to approve a referendum, with prospects for its organization within six months under the right circumstances.
Original Source: colombiareports.com
