Petro advocates "dialogue and consensus" after the mobilizations against the Colombian government

MADRID, 16 Feb. (EUROPA PRESS) -

The president of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, has advocated dialogue with the opposition after more than 47,000 people have demonstrated in the streets of the country to show their discontent with the proposals announced by the president.

"The guarantees of dialogue and consensus will always be the pillars of our government," Petro said after noting that during the day of demonstrations he had been "monitoring the correct development of the mobilizations."

According to the authorities, the rallies, which took place this Wednesday, have brought together nearly 20,000 more people than those called by the Government, which took place a day earlier, since they have counted 47,000 and 28,100 people, respectively.

The head of the National Police, Tito Castellanos, has highlighted the good behavior in them. "44 activities were carried out: 36 marches, two mobilizations and 10 rallies, in 24 municipalities (...) and the capital. Fortunately, everything passed calmly, no situation arose that would alter public peace and security," he explained. , as reported by Blu Radio.

However, an altercation broke out when several protesters attacked Medellín mayoral pre-candidate Juan Carlos Upegui, who was talking to citizens.

"I decided to attend the opposition march in Medellín with a message of peace, I believe in a country where we can speak and be different without being enemies. Unfortunately, Uribismo is blinded by hatred and I was physically attacked," Upegui lamented.

In addition, two journalists have been attacked while they were working covering the demonstration and carrying out live broadcasts. The reporter Hernán Muriel has indicated that those attending the march have damaged their equipment and hit their faces.