Colombians take to the streets to protest leftist government's reforms

March takes place a day after government summoned supporters to stand behind controversial reforms
Laura Gamba Fadul |
16.02.2023

BOGOTA, Colombia

Colombia's opposition, led by right-wing parties, called Wednesday for mobilizations against the healthcare reform proposed by the government of Gustavo Petro, who came to power last August promising sweeping changes to achieve equality in the country.

Thousands of people marched in 12 cities including the capital Bogota, Medellin and Cali wearing white T-shirts and waving the national flag, chanting “​​No more Petro, no more reforms that take away people's rights.”

The demonstrations took place a day after Petro summoned his followers to take to the streets to rally in favor of the health reform as well as the pension, justice and labor amendments he announced the government will present soon.

The country’s first-ever leftist president introduced the healthcare plan before Congress on Monday, including initiatives to promote a health prevention model, increase pay for workers in the sector, strengthen public hospitals and increase the role of the state in healthcare.

More:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/americas/colombians-take-to-the-streets-to-protest-leftist-government-s-reforms/2821356

(Colombia's radical right-wing has been assassinating and slaughtering democratic politicians and citizens they imagine support them for decades.)