President Gustavo Petro Proposes Special Election for Stalled Reforms in Colombia

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has proposed a special election to allow voters to decide on stalled labor and health reforms after facing legislative resistance. He criticized the Senate for siding with the oligarchy and called for public mobilization to support these changes. The special election requires Senate approval and aims for direct voter participation.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced on Tuesday his intention to call a special election allowing citizens to vote on stalled labor and health reforms. During a televised address, he criticized the Senate for allegedly undermining voters’ interests and siding with the elite. Supported by activists and pro-government politicians, he urged mobilization for these reforms, emphasizing direct public decision-making.

Petro’s proposal follows a statement from eight senators declaring their opposition to the health reform in a pivotal committee vote. The President has faced challenges in advancing legislation due to his party’s minority status in Congress. During his campaign in 2022, he pledged to overhaul Colombia’s health system by transitioning from private insurance companies to a government agency for managing obligatory social security funds.

The President has criticized insurance firms for mismanaging substantial amounts of money. However, many legislators have opposed his health reform, claiming it would concentrate too much authority within governmental agencies, which may not adequately serve millions of patients. In addition, Petro’s labor reform, which includes raising wages for night workers and restricting short-term contracts, has also faced considerable legislative resistance.

The proposed special election, referred to as a “popular consultation,” requires approval from a majority of Colombia’s Senate. In this process, voters will respond to straightforward yes or no questions, and a minimum participation of one-third of registered voters is necessary for the results to be enacted.

President Gustavo Petro’s call for a special election reflects his determination to revive stalled reforms in Colombia’s labor and health sectors. With significant opposition from Congress, he aims to empower voters directly, ensuring their voices are heard in critical areas affecting the nation’s welfare. This approach may signify a pivotal moment in Colombian politics, gauging public sentiment on government’s role in health and labor reforms.

Original Source: apnews.com