Story perspectives

Colombia Slashes Congressional Salaries Amid Budget Crisis

1/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Colombia's President Gustavo Petro announced a 30% wage reduction for Congress members due to a budget crisis and upcoming elections.
The decree removes the "bonus for special services," reducing salaries from approximately $13,000 to $9,400 monthly, while most workers earn around $500.
Some legislators, including Senator Angélica Lozano, support the measure for equity, while Senate President Lidio García criticized it as punitive.
The government aims to increase its budget by $4 billion for health, fuel subsidies, and military infrastructure against rebel drone attacks.

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Story summary

Colombia's President Gustavo Petro announced a 30% wage reduction for Congress members due to a budget crisis and upcoming elections.
The decree removes the "bonus for special services," reducing salaries from approximately $13,000 to $9,400 monthly, while most workers earn around $500.
Some legislators, including Senator Angélica Lozano, support the measure for equity, while Senate President Lidio García criticized it as punitive.
The government aims to increase its budget by $4 billion for health, fuel subsidies, and military infrastructure against rebel drone attacks.