On November 23, 2024, large-scale protests erupted across Colombia against President Gustavo Petro’s proposed reforms, with demonstrators voicing concerns about corruption and political stability. Participants included retired military officials and opposition members, who criticized the government’s agenda. President Petro contested the size of the protests and accused participants of attempting to undermine his authority.
On November 23, 2024, thousands of Colombians gathered in various cities, including Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali, to express their opposition to the government of President Gustavo Petro. The protests were primarily sparked by discontent regarding proposed reforms in health, labor, and pensions, alongside allegations of corruption within Petro’s administration. Among the demonstrators were retired military officials and members of opposition political parties, who criticized the reforms and displayed signs that read, “No to Petro reforms” and “No to labor reforms.” President Petro, who has been accused of fostering instability, claimed that only about 20,000 participants attended the demonstrations and labelled them as efforts to undermine his government. He further proclaimed his commitment to defending democracy against what he perceived as a coup attempt.
Colombia has a history of political protests, particularly since President Gustavo Petro took office in 2022. His leftist policies have met with significant resistance from opposition groups and segments of the military. The proposed reforms have provoked widespread concern over governance and potential economic impacts, especially amidst ongoing debates about transparency and corruption in public policy. The recent protests signify a resurgence of public dissent, further complicating the political landscape in Colombia as Petro seeks to pass his reform agenda.
The protests on November 23, 2024, illustrate the growing public discontent with President Gustavo Petro’s administration and his proposed reforms. With demonstrators rallying against perceived corruption and the impact of the proposed health, labor, and pension changes, the unrest signifies a crucial moment in Colombia’s political climate. The President’s attempts to dismiss the scale of the protests reflect a deepening divide between his government and segments of the Colombian populace.
Original Source: apnews.com
