Colombia opposition groups launch protest against de la Espriella’s cuts

Former left-wing President Gustavo Petro joined thousands of demonstrators in Bogota in a march against austerity, restored Israel ties.A coalition of opposition parties, trade unions, indigenous groups and social movements has protested in Colombia against a series of economic and security policies advanced under right-wing President Abelardo de la Espriella.Thousands marched in major cities including the capital Bogota on Wednesday, the first day of a nationwide campaign led by the country’s former left-wing President Gustavo Petro.Recommended Stories list of 3 itemslist 1 of 3Colombia extradites leader of armed group to US in shift towards Washingtonlist 2 of 3Colombia peace tribunal charges ex-FARC members with anti-Indigenous crimeslist 3 of 3Colombia opens embassy in Jerusalem and restores free trade with Israelend of listUnder Petro, Colombia expanded access to public universities, increased the minimum wage and improved labour protections for workers.Opposition groups say many of those reforms are now under threat, as de la Espriella’s government embraces cuts to government programmes.Colombia’s Congress has until Tuesday to approve its 2027 fiscal year budget. But as part ...