President Gustavo Petro’s recent speech in Puerto Rellena, Cali has sparked controversy and debate across Colombia. In his address on Friday, March 15, Petro warned that if the social reforms he proposed to the Congress of the Republic are not approved, he will call for a National Constituent Assembly.
Petro stated, “If this possibility of a popularly elected Government in the middle of this State and under the Constitution of Colombia cannot apply the Constitution because they surround it to not apply it and prevent it, then Colombia has to go to a National Constituent Assembly.”
These remarks have led to a flurry of reactions, with Senator María Fernanda Cabal of the Democratic Center party calling out Petro for contradicting his previous statements. Cabal noted a video from 2018 in which Petro vowed not to call for a constituent assembly during the presidential campaign.
Cabal criticized Petro, labeling him as a “liar and radical leftist” and accusing him of promoting reforms that would only bring “misery and desolation” to Colombia. She urged the people of Colombia to “Wake up” and be aware of Petro’s intentions.
The growing tension between Petro and his critics underscores the deep political divisions within Colombia and the ongoing debate over the country’s future direction. It remains to be seen how these developments will shape the political landscape in the weeks and months ahead.