BTN News: In a big move towards peace, Colombian President Gustavo Petro called for talks with all political groups and society. He wants to get his reforms approved. This was said during the start of the new Congress session on Colombia’s Independence Day. Petro talked about the need for a “national agreement.” He also apologized for a corruption scandal involving the National Unit for Disaster Risk Management (UNGRD). This scandal has involved many legislators, ministers, and top officials in his government.
President Petro Wants Political Unity and Reforms for a Better Future
President Petro told Congress that everyone needs to work together to pass the needed reforms. He said, “The political pact I propose is to agree on reforms, not to remain in the status quo because that status quo has made us the most unequal society on Earth.” Petro’s government has faced many problems in Congress, with several important reforms being rejected because he does not have a majority. He had asked for a national agreement last year, but it did not work. The opposition said Petro tried to push his ideas without talking to others.
Renewed Focus on Healthcare and Economic Reforms for All
One of the reforms is about healthcare, which is a big topic of debate. Petro said this reform would be brought back for discussion. It faced much opposition before, with some saying it would make healthcare services worse. Petro also talked about the need for teamwork on economic projects. He suggested that discussions should happen even before the projects are brought to Congress.
Commitment to Land Reforms and Peace Agreement with FARC
Petro promised his government would work on land reforms. This is a key part of the peace deal signed in November 2016 with the former FARC fighters. He asked Congress to support these reforms. The goal is to give three million hectares of fertile land to Colombian farmers. Petro asked, “Why can’t we make this Congress and Government go down in history by truly fulfilling the peace agreement?”
Reaching Out to All Parts of Society Beyond Congress
Petro’s idea for a national agreement includes not just Congress but also other groups in society. He wants to hear different views and make changes that help everyone.
Addressing Violence in Cauca and Efforts for Peace
During his speech, some congress members showed banners with ‘SOS Cauca.’ This was about the violence in the southwestern part of the country. This violence is due to attacks by the Central General Staff (EMC), a main dissident group of the former FARC. Petro spoke against the EMC’s actions, saying they refused to talk and chose violence, hurting indigenous people, social leaders, and even children.
Apology for Corruption Scandal in the Government
Petro began his speech by saying sorry for the corruption scandal in the UNGRD. This scandal involves the misuse of millions of dollars. Several government members are involved. Petro took responsibility, saying he was the one who appointed Olmedo López. López is a leftist activist who was named head of the UNGRD in April 2023. He quit in February because of the accusations. Petro said, “I have to ask for forgiveness because I appointed him, and thus, there is a political responsibility that I must assume.”
Independence Day Celebrations and the Public’s Response to Petro
Before his speech in Congress, Petro went to the Independence Day military parade in Bogotá. He arrived more than two hours late and left before the event ended. The crowd booed him and demanded respect for the Armed Forces. This shows the difficult situation around his presidency and the hard work needed to get more support for his ideas.
Petro’s call for unity and his apology are important steps. He wants to solve Colombia’s problems and make changes for the better. His success will depend on real talks and working together with everyone.
