Colombian “March of Silence” Draws Over 120,000 in Protest Against Petro’s Policies

Thousands of Colombians took to the streets in a “March of Silence,” a significant demonstration against President Gustavo Petro‘s management and it’s policies. The march, wich drew over 120,000 participants across major cities, highlighted growing concerns over the separation of powers and proposed constitutional reforms, marking a notable challenge to Petro’s agenda.

Massive Turnout Signals Opposition to Petro’s Policies

The “March of Silence” saw an estimated 70,000 people in Bogotá and 50,000 in Medellín, according to unified command posts, showcasing a substantial opposition force. This demonstration directly confronts the Petro government’s narrative, which often frames the social unrest of 2021 as the primary source of its mandate, even more so than the 2022 election results.

Did You No? President Petro’s administration views the 2021 social outbreak as a key legitimizing factor, as reflected in the negotiation agenda with the National Liberation Army (ELN).

In contrast to government-organized rallies, which often rely on mobilizing unions, state employees, and indigenous groups, the “March of Silence” was described as a more spontaneous and decentralized expression of dissent. This distinction underscores a potential shift in public sentiment, suggesting that opposition to Petro’s policies is growing beyond the president’s core support base.

Political Analysts Weigh In

Political analysts suggest the march reflects a consolidation of opposition forces concerned about the perceived threats to the State, private property, and the market under the current administration. Alejandro Chalá, a researcher at the Pares Democracy line, noted the march revealed the fragility of the left in post-Petrism era and the need to rebuild a new narrative for 2026.

Andrés Caro added that the current political climate, driven by discussions around constitutional reform, has created an surroundings where a broad center, ranging from figures like Claudia López to Maria Fernanda Cabal, feels compelled to defend democratic principles.

Demographic Breakdown and Future Implications

While the “March of Silence” demonstrated significant opposition,it primarily drew participants from the middle class and older generations.The absence of a strong youth presence, particularly from student movements that were prominent in the 2021 protests, raises questions about the breadth of the opposition’s appeal.

Pro Tip: Engaging younger demographics will be crucial for any opposition movement seeking to build a lasting coalition against the current administration.

Despite these demographic limitations, the march sends a clear message that there is limited public support for President Petro’s proposed constituent assembly, particularly after his recent decree that was widely viewed as overstepping constitutional boundaries.

Key Metrics: March of Silence vs. Pro-Government Rallies

The “march of Silence” represents a significant moment in Colombian politics, highlighting the challenges President Petro faces in advancing his agenda. The size and composition of the march underscore the need for the administration to address concerns about constitutional overreach and engage with a broader spectrum of the population.

What impact will this “March of Silence” have on President Petro’s agenda? How might the opposition broaden its appeal to include younger Colombians?

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