Tens of thousands of Colombians took to the streets on Sunday to protest against the economic and social reforms proposed by President Gustavo Petro’s leftist government. Despite the gloomy weather, around 70,000 people marched in Bogota, the capital, chanting “out with Petro” and waving national flags.
The proposed reforms, which Petro claims will address deep inequality in the country, have faced strong opposition from critics who argue that they will further damage Colombia’s already struggling economy. The recent march in Bogota comes after a Senate committee rejected a health reform aimed at overhauling the healthcare system, a move that has sparked outrage among citizens.
“This government’s policies are dire. The health system, despite its flaws, was working and now Petro is putting an end to it by plunging patients who have no healthcare or medicine into a crisis,” said Monica Leon, a 45-year-old doctor participating in the protest.
Accountant Miguel Angel Larrota, 52, echoed similar sentiments, stating that he was protesting against bad governance and demanding that Petro not destroy what already works in the country.
The opposition to Petro’s reforms is not limited to his political adversaries, as even some of his former supporters have joined the protest. Senator Paloma Valencia from the opposition Democratic Center party noted that the march brought together a diverse group of people, including those who voted for Petro two years ago.
The demonstrations were not limited to Bogota, as people also marched in the cities of Medellin and Cali. While some have shown support for Petro’s reforms in the past, the recent protests highlight the growing discontent among Colombians regarding the government’s policies.