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Colombian President Petro Rallies Thousands to Push Reform Agenda

Facing congressional resistance, Petro proposes a referendum and mobilizes public support for health and labor reforms.

President Gustavo Petro addresses supporters during a rally he called to back his labor and health reform proposals, which have struggled to gain legislative approval, outside Congress in Bogotá, Colombia, Tuesday, March 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara)
Supporters of President Gustavo Petro rally during a march he called to back his labor and health reform proposals, which have struggled to gain legislative approval, outside Congress in Bogotá, Colombia, Tuesday, March 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara)
President Gustavo Petro addresses supporters during a rally he called to back his labor and health reform proposals, which have struggled to gain legislative approval, outside Congress in Bogotá, Colombia, Tuesday, March 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara)
President Gustavo Petro addresses supporters during a rally he called to back his labor and health reform proposals, which have struggled to gain legislative approval, outside Congress in Bogotá, Colombia, Tuesday, March 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Fernando Vergara)

Overview

  • Thousands of supporters marched in major cities like Bogota and Medellin to back President Gustavo Petro's stalled health and labor reforms.
  • The proposed reforms aim to restore worker rights, including eight-hour workdays, night pay, and restrictions on outsourcing.
  • Petro has accused powerful business interests of obstructing the reforms and criticized Congress for its resistance.
  • The president proposed a referendum to bypass legislative gridlock, though analysts doubt Congress will approve it or that it will achieve sufficient voter turnout.
  • With just over a year left in his term, Petro is intensifying efforts to fulfill campaign promises and strengthen his political movement ahead of the 2026 elections.