Colombia’s Espriella signs decree targeting street blockades ahead of protests

Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has signed a security decree giving authorities powers to prevent street barricades and road closures ahead of nationwide demonstrations planned for Wednesday.

“In Colombia, the right to protest is respected, but there is no right to destroy, to block roads, to attack security forces, to commit assault, or, of course, to sow chaos,” Espriella said in a video address.

He said the decree gives the government “the teeth it needs” to protect citizens and combat what he described as “vandalism and urban terrorism disguised as protest.”

Major labour unions, including teachers’ federation Fecode and the Central Union of Workers, have called for mobilisations, alongside left-wing organisations planning rallies in Bogota, Medellin, Cali and Barranquilla.

Former President Gustavo Petro said he plans to join demonstrators marching from Parque Nacional to Plaza de Bolivar in the capital. The protests are expected to focus on education, healthcare, labour protections and living costs.

Espriella said authorities would set up unified command posts to coordinate police, military and municipal leaders. Security forces would document disruptive acts while preventing demonstrators from stopping cargo transport or blocking emergency vehicles, he added.