Yamandu Orsi was sworn in as Uruguay’s president, returning the country to leftist rule after five years of center-right leadership. He vowed to maintain economic stability, tackle crime, and promote sustainable development. His inauguration was attended by numerous international delegates, and he faces challenges from a divided parliament and social demands without increasing the budget deficit.
Yamandu Orsi was inaugurated as the President of Uruguay on Saturday, marking a return to leftist governance after five years of center-right leadership under former President Luis Lacalle Pou. Uruguay, home to approximately 3.4 million citizens, celebrated its 40th anniversary of uninterrupted democracy during this event. Orsi emphasized the connection between healthy democracy and well-being standards in his inaugural address delivered at Montevideo’s Legislative Palace.
In his address, the 57-year-old Orsi paid tribute to his mentor, former President Jose “Pepe” Mujica, who supported his campaign despite battling esophageal cancer. Orsi has committed to maintaining the country’s economic stability, addressing drug-related crime, and fostering sustainable, humane development throughout his five-year term. He is the ninth president of Uruguay since the end of a 13-year civil-military dictatorship in 1985.
Orsi remarked on the lingering impacts of the dictatorship, stressing the need to uphold commitments to freedom, truth, and justice. Supporters expressed enthusiasm for Orsi’s presidency, with citizen Cecilia Riera remarking, “We have been waiting for this for five years.” According to an opinion poll, Orsi has a favorable rating of 44 percent among voters as he begins his tenure.
His inauguration drew delegates from over 60 countries, reflecting international interest. Orsi also engaged in bilateral discussions with multiple leaders, including a gathering with leftist leaders from Brazil, Chile, and Colombia. His administration will govern a divided parliament where the Broad Front coalition holds a majority only in the Senate, posing a potential challenge to Orsi’s negotiating skills.
Orsi’s administration will need to address pressing social issues without expanding the budget deficit, particularly as ongoing drought conditions dim growth forecasts to three percent for the year. Despite these challenges, economist Arturo Porzecanski noted, “Orsi inherits an economy and a country whose fundamentals are very solid.” His ability to navigate internal coalition tensions will be crucial as he seeks to meet the expectations of his constituents.
In conclusion, Yamandu Orsi’s presidency marks a significant shift back to leftist governance in Uruguay, coinciding with the nation’s celebration of four decades of democracy. While he faces various challenges, including a divided parliament and pressing social demands, the economic fundamentals of the country provide a firm foundation for his administration. His dedication to sustainable development and justice underscores the hopes of his supporters as he begins this critical term.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
