Petro Denies Role in Colombia Strike Despite Past Calls for Protests

Colombia's National Strike: Petro Denies Involvement Amidst Evidence of Past Calls for Protests On May 29, 2025, Colombia experienced a significant national strike. President Gustavo Petro publicly denied any involvement, claiming it was organized by labor unions and popular groups. However, this statement is contrasted by several instances of Petro previously calling for similar mass mobilizations. This contradiction has led to intense debate among political analysts. The video from Noticias Caracol includes footage of the protests, showing various demonstrations across the country. One analyst, Pedro Viveros, a political analyst from Blu Radio, commented, "The president has never taken responsibility, especially when facing adversity." This highlights the central tension in the situation: Petro's denial versus the evidence of his prior actions. Further complicating the narrative is a leaked conversation between Interior Minister Armando Benedetti and President Petro, revealed by Semana magazine. The conversation, which took place on the day the popular consultation failed, centers around who should be responsible for coordinating a general strike. This suggests a level of presidential involvement that contradicts his public statements. The situation remains complex and is likely to continue to fuel political discussions in Colombia. Despite the controversy, the peaceful nature of many demonstrations offers a positive counterpoint to the political tension. The focus now shifts to understanding the long-term implications of the strike and the government's response.