Colombia: UN Human Rights denounces threats and attacks in Cali

Duque withdraws tax reform bill and asks for another 3:42

(CNN Spanish) -

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Colombia says members of her commission have been threatened and attacked in Cali, Colombia, while investigating protests over a tax reform bill.

In a statement on her verified Twitter account, Commissioner Juliette de Rivero on Tuesday accused local police of shooting at members of the UN Human Rights Commission in Colombia, but said no one had been injured.

CNN has reached out to the mayor's office, the governor's office and the Police Department for a response to the allegation.

They have yet to respond publicly to Rivero's claims.

Hours earlier, Rivero had written on Twitter that she was concerned about the information UN Human Rights Colombia was receiving about an unconfirmed number of deaths in the Siloé area of ​​the city of Cali.

Colombia stands up and resists with love, says activist 4:33

The Cali authorities have not issued any official statement that reports if there are deaths or injuries in the area.

Since last Wednesday, in several cities in Colombia there have been protests against a tax reform project by President Iván Duque that included increasing taxes on individuals and companies, as well as eliminating various exemptions.

He said the tax reform was aimed at alleviating the country's deficit, reviving the economy and helping social programs.

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After reported clashes in Bogotá, Cali, Medellín and other cities, Duque announced last Friday that it will modify its tax proposal, which will no longer include a tax on sales of food, utilities and gasoline, and will eliminate the increase in the income tax. rent.

Despite the announcement, the protests have continued.

UN