Issue and Opponent: Once President Gustavo Rojas Pinilla came to power in 1953, he began to censor the press, enrich himself at the expense of the national economy, greatly increase Colombia’s foreign debt, and destroy the country with bombs and napalm to suppress guerillas. Unhappy with his performance, the majority in Colombia anticipated the coming election in 1957 to vote him out and make Guillermo Valencia president. Rojas prevented this by commanding soldiers to place Valencia on house arrest. Rojas also arrested opposition groups, killed protesters, and began to set up bills to end universal voting rights for the people. On April 25, Rojas sent bills to the Assembly to ensure his re-election on May 7.
Dilemma Action: Students in Bogotá began to strike on May 1 after Valencia was placed on house arrest. They set up strike councils and began fundraising, making fliers and stickers with the slogan “Death to Rojas,” and planned tactical opposition like spreading glass and nails in the streets to stop the police. The Universal Central Committee then took control of the student strike on May 4th and held meetings with multiple labor unions to orchestrate a general strike. The National Front formed as the liberal and conservative party leaders joined forces to protect civilian peace. May 5th became the turning point for the revolution after two students were killed in protests following a church sermon where the priest condemned Rojas and his actions. On May 7th, economic activity throughout the country began to stall as shopkeepers joined the strike, and more demonstrations began. Street strikers and soldiers clashed as tear gas and red water jets were used by the soldiers. Fifty protesters died on this day. Strikers and demonstrators continued to march and send letters to the government to force Rojas’ resignation. Rojas was re-elected on May 8th.
Outcome: May 9th marks the day when military leaders decided Rojas must be disposed of for the good of the people and economy. The Civic Front also demanded the resignation of Rojas. On May 10, a military junta convinced Rojas to resign. A year later, they held a free election for the National Assembly and Presidency. Since the beginning of his presidency in 1953, a large majority of the people rejected his leadership.