Yamandú Orsi has won the presidential election in Uruguay, returning power to the left after five years of conservative governance. He promises a collaborative leadership style to address urgent issues like crime and economic recovery. His victory was endorsed by José Mujica, and though he will face a divided legislature, Orsi’s election reflects a shift in voter sentiment.
On November 24, left-wing candidate Yamandú Orsi was declared president of Uruguay, signaling a shift in political power from five years of conservative governance. In a closely contested runoff election, Orsi, representing the Frente Amplio (Broad Front) coalition, bested Álvaro Delgado of the National Party. As he accepted his victory, Orsi pledged to foster dialogue amongst citizens to identify optimal solutions for national challenges. Delgado graciously acknowledged his defeat with a warm message to Orsi.
Despite the political change, experts anticipate that economic policies will remain steady, given Orsi’s commitment to gradual reforms rather than radical alterations. Both candidates promised to address rising crime linked to drug trafficking while promoting economic growth, which is recovering after setbacks from the Covid-19 pandemic and severe drought conditions. With approximately 94.4% of votes counted, Orsi secured 1,123,420 votes compared to Delgado’s 1,042,001.
Celebrations erupted in Montevideo, a stronghold for Frente Amplio voters, upon the announcement of Orsi’s projected win. His campaign gained momentum following endorsements from prominent figures such as José “Pepe” Mujica, a former president known for his austere lifestyle. Initially, Orsi garnered 43.9% support in the first round of voting held on October 27, surpassing Delgado’s 26.7%, thus necessitating the runoff.
Although Orsi will have a majority in the Senate, his coalition is in the minority in the Chamber of Representatives due to the outcomes of the October legislative elections. This election marks a return to leftist governance in Uruguay, known for its compulsory voting system and relatively high income levels. Previously, under leftist rule, the country achieved significant social advancements, such as the legalization of abortion and same-sex marriage.
In a poignant reflection on the electoral process, former president Mujica expressed his concerns for the youth of Uruguay, as he struggles with health issues. He stated, “Personally, I have nothing more to look forward to… But I am interested in the fate of you, the young people who, when they are my age, will live in a very different world.”
The recent election of Yamandú Orsi signals a notable political transition in Uruguay, where the left-wing coalition, Frente Amplio, has regained leadership following five years of center-right rule. The political landscape shifted substantially as Uruguay moves towards addressing concerns raised about crime and economic stagnation that have emerged over the past few years. Orsi’s promise to foster national dialogues suggests a collaborative approach to tackling these pressing issues, which remain central in the minds of voters.
In conclusion, the election of Yamandú Orsi as Uruguay’s president marks a significant pivot back to leftist governance in the nation after a period of conservative leadership. With a clear mandate from voters, Orsi faces the dual challenge of addressing crime and reviving economic growth in a post-pandemic context. His emphasis on national dialogue and unity, alongside the support from former president Mujica, highlights a strategic approach to governance as the nation prepares for a change in direction.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
