Thousands demonstrate across Colombia against new right wing president

Thousands of people demonstrated peacefully across Colombia on Wednesday in opposition to the new right-wing President, Abelardo de la Espriella. France 24 reported that these marches represent the first major show of force by the opposition since the president took office in August. Further coverage from TRT World, Anadolu Ajansi, UA.NEWS, and Operativ Malumat Merkezi confirmed that thousands rallied in cities nationwide. [1][2][3][4][5]

Former leftist President Gustavo Petro led a major rally in the capital city of Bogota. France 24 reported that Petro was joined in the streets by trade unionists, Indigenous groups, students, and feminist activists. [1]

The nationwide demonstrations targeted the political direction and policies of De la Espriella. France 24 noted that he entered office in August after promising to combat crime and eradicate illegal activity. Reporting from TRT World, Anadolu Ajansi, UA.NEWS, and Operativ Malumat Merkezi indicated that demonstrators also protested government policy concerning Jerusalem, spending cuts, and restored relations with Israel. [1][2][3][4][5]

The South American nation is governed under a 1991 constitution that emphasizes a unitary state with strong executive powers. Colombia previously experienced decades of internal conflict involving guerrilla movements, right-wing paramilitaries, and drug cartels. [8]