This Saturday, thousands of Colombians took to the streets of Bogotá and 17 other cities across the country to express their opposition to the reforms proposed by President Gustavo Petro. The day of protest, organized by social organizations and opposition parties, stands out as one of the largest demonstrations against the current government.

Petro’s proposed reforms, which include significant changes in sectors such as healthcare, education, and the labor system, have sparked intense national debate. Opponents criticize these initiatives as disruptive to the economy and workers’ rights.

Government Response

In a conciliatory gesture, President Petro used his social media accounts to emphasize that his administration fully respects the constitutional right to protest. “You can march because we will allow it,” he stated on his official X account (formerly Twitter).

In an additional message, Petro highlighted that the protests have not been marked by violence or police repression, saying: “No women raped, no tear gas, no young people with their eyes destroyed, no torture, no thousands detained.” These remarks refer to historical criticism of how previous governments handled protests.

Political Context

Petro’s administration faces growing opposition to the structural reforms it seeks to implement, which have divided public opinion and political sectors alike. Saturday’s demonstrations add to the challenges facing the government, which must balance its progressive proposals with the demands of various citizen groups.

The recent mobilizations make it clear that the debate over these reforms will remain a central issue on Colombia’s political agenda in the coming months.