The union warns that the measure has no justification in this type of event and would affect commerce, tourism and gastronomy.
The president of Fenalco, Jaime Alberto Cabal Sanclemente, called on the country’s mayors and governors not to impose dry law during the interparty consultations next Sunday, October 26.
According to the leader, These votes do not compromise public order or mobilize large numbers of citizens, Therefore, there would not be sufficient reasons to apply restrictions on the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages.
“The weekend is the main time of entry for thousands of small and medium-sized establishments. A prohibition law represents a considerable loss in sales and puts at risk the stability of businesses that already face a complex environment,” Cabal said.
Fenalco explained that the rule that allows this restriction to be imposed—article 206 of the Electoral Code, decree 2241 of 1986— It was conceived for the presidential and legislative elections, and does not contemplate interparty consultations, which did not exist when the regulation was issued.
The union warned that Extending this measure to these processes has no justification and generates a direct impact on the local economy, especially in municipalities with a tourist vocation or that depend on weekend commerce.
“We appeal to the wisdom of local leaders to avoid decisions that end up punishing productivity and formal employment,” stated the president of Fenalco.
Cabal insisted that local authorities have other tools to guarantee security and citizen coexistence, such as controls in public spaces, police accompaniment or responsible consumption campaigns, without the need to impose a general dry law.
Fenalco reiterated that any restriction of this type must be well supported and respond to verifiable reasons of risk to public order, avoiding affecting productive sectors without a clear cause.
Source: Integrated Information System
