Petro’s Push for Constituent Assembly Faces Opposition, Re-election Debate Ignites in Colombia
BOGOTA, Colombia – Amidst escalating political tensions, Colombian President Gustavo Petro‘s proposal for an “Eighth Ballot” to convene a national Constituent Assembly is facing staunch opposition. Senator Paloma Valencia of the Democratic Center has dismissed the idea as “unachievable,” citing the specific procedures outlined in the 1991 Constitution for initiating such a process [[1]].
valencia argued that unlike the circumstances surrounding the 1886 Constitution, the current framework requires a congressional procedure to call for a constituent assembly. She further emphasized Colombian unity in defending the existing Constitution and downplayed the threat of re-election, suggesting that if Petro is allowed to seek another term, former President Álvaro Uribe could also be eligible to return to office.
The debate surrounding a potential re-election figure has intensified alongside Petro’s push for constitutional reform. Justice Minister Eduardo Montealegre has affirmed plans to propose a National Constituent Assembly via ballot in March 2026. However, the Democratic Center views this proposal as a move towards reforms “in the style of Castro and Chávez.”
The broader community has expressed “great concern” regarding the proposed reforms, signaling a perhaps divisive political battle ahead. This growth adds another layer of complexity to Colombia’s political landscape, as Petro’s governance navigates opposition efforts to maintain the status quo.
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