Colombians Protest Petro's Economic, Social Reforms

Tens of thousands of Colombians marched to reject economic and social reforms proposed by the leftist government of President Gustavo Petro, the latest in a series of demonstrations against Petro's policies, as reported by Nelson Bocanegra for the Associated Press (AP).

The reforms were Petro's key campaign promises. I Photo: Gustavo Petro Facebook

The reforms, which Petro says will combat deep inequality but which opponents argue will harm the country's already struggling economy, were key campaign promises for the 64-year-old leader, who took office in 2022.

Despite gray skies and rain, approximately 70,000 people marched in Bogota, the capital, according to city government estimates, chanting "out with Petro," waving national flags, and blowing trumpets before gathering in the central Bolivar Square.

The march follows a Senate committee's rejection earlier this month of a proposed health reform aimed at reducing power from insurers and expanding access to healthcare, as the government took control of two major insurers it said had failed to adequately care for patients.

The government is expected to propose a new version of the health reform once the new legislative session begins in July. Pension and labor reforms are still under debate by lawmakers.