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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Public Workers Strike In Colombia

Compiled From Wire Services

Tens of thousands of public employees marched on Bogota’s main square Tuesday in the first indication that unions have withdrawn support from President Ernesto Samper, who portrays himself as the defender of workers and the poor.

The first nationwide work stoppage in 20 years began as a demonstration in response to the size of wage increases and plans to sell government companies, but it has evolved into a protest of government economic austerity programs.

Colombia’s once-robust economy has declined because of political instability and the lack of public safety, evident in the kidnapping and homicide rates here that are among the highest in the world.