2024-04-28 05:04:40
The General Confederation of Labor (CGT) has decided this year not to participate in the mobilizations of Wednesday, May 1, thus distancing itself from the call made by President Gustavo Petro.
This announcement marks a turning point given the historic support that unions such as the CGT, the CUT and Fecode have provided to government initiatives in the past. The decision responds to concerns about the possible instrumentalization of the marches for political purposes that could divert them from their original union and democratic objectives.
The dissent arises after the massive marches on Sunday, April 21. Where sectors critical of the Petro Government took to the streets. Leaving in evidence a growing discontent in some sectors of society, with the current government.
“The CGT confirms that it will not attend the utilitarian call of the president and some union organizations. And social groups related to his mandates to pressure the unconditional approval of his policies and reforms.” He stated the organization in a statement, underlining its commitment to a “democratic” and “autonomous” unionism.
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“We reject manipulation,” they declared from the CGT, calling on independent unionism and citizens in general. On the importance of commemorating May 1 in a way that “rescues the historical and independent role” of this date. The main concern lies in the potential convocation of a national constituent assembly outside the institutional framework, promoted under the cover of the mobilizations.
The CGT also recalled its opposition to the instrumentalization of last year’s march. By the government, underlining the importance of preserving union autonomy. “Just like last year, when the Government instrumentalized the march, this Confederation opposed it, preserving the autonomy that should characterize unionism,” the organization emphasized.
Finally, the Confederation made a call to President Petro, urging him to take note of the discontent reflected in the marches of April 21. And to seek, through dialogue and agreement, solutions to the current situation in the country. “Today we again reject manipulation, and we call for autonomous, independent and democratic unionism. And to the citizens, not to be confused,” they concluded, appealing to a May 1 of reflection and collective action that transcends the immediate political spectrum.
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