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Yamandu Orsi, a candidate from the centre-left Broad Front, has emerged victorious in the presidential election in Uruguay, according to official results released on Sunday, which indicate that 97% of votes have been counted. This outcome signifies a shift away from the conservative governing coalition, adding Uruguay to the list of countries that have recently rejected incumbents amid a wave of significant electoral changes across the globe.
Orsi, who was slightly favored in the polls, garnered 49.77% of the votes, while his rival, conservative candidate Alvaro Delgado, received 45.94%. These results highlight a competitive race in a nation known for its political stability and progressive policies.
In a speech to a cheering crowd of Broad Front supporters gathered along the scenic waterfront of Montevideo, Orsi expressed optimism about the future. “The horizon is brightening,” he declared, emphasizing values of freedom, equality, and fraternity as foundational to his vision for the country. “Let’s continue on that path,” he urged, encouraging unity and progress.
Both Delgado and the current president, Luis Lacalle Pou, who is also a member of the National party, acknowledged the results and extended their congratulations to Orsi, outlining their willingness to assist in a smooth transition. Delgado conveyed mixed feelings about the defeat, saying, “With sadness, but without guilt, we can congratulate the winner.”
The election, which featured two moderate candidates, capped off a turbulent year marked by a series of global elections characterized by political polarization. Uruguay, with its 3.4 million residents and reputation for progressive social policies including legal marijuana, stands out for its relatively cooperative political landscape. Unlike the sharp divides seen in the recent elections in neighboring countries like Argentina and Brazil, Uruguay’s political factions exhibit notable overlap.
As the nation grapples with high living costs, growing inequality, and rising crime rates, Orsi’s approach emphasizes a “modern left” strategy aimed at addressing these pressing challenges. Notably, while inflation has been declining, the backdrop of economic hardship remains a critical issue for many voters. Orsi previously won 43.9% in the first round of October voting and faced Delgado, who, despite receiving 26.8%, benefited from the support of the conservative Colorado party, indicating a strong conservative coalition.
Voter sentiments reveal a desire for change, particularly among those who feel the current government has not adequately addressed their needs. For instance, construction worker Ruben Parada, 44, expressed confidence in the Broad Front’s orientation towards supporting working-class citizens over the wealthy. In contrast, Delgado positioned himself as a continuity candidate, appealing to the popularity of the outgoing president.
The ruling coalition faced criticism regarding its effectiveness in managing crime and has become entangled in corruption controversies. Despite attempts to highlight their achievements, such as infrastructure developments, some voters remained unconvinced, reflecting a broader desire for a new direction.
Following the elections in October, no party holds an outright majority in the lower house of parliament. However, Orsi’s Broad Front has secured a significant number of seats, winning 16 of 30 in the Senate. This positioning is seen as advantageous for Orsi’s ability to govern effectively.
The recent electoral results underscore a global tendency for incumbent parties to lose support, concluding what has been described as an unprecedented year of elections worldwide.
Source
www.theguardian.com