Yamandu Orsi has been sworn in as president of Uruguay, ending five years of center-right leadership. He pledges to protect the economy and tackle social issues while inheriting a divided parliament. His inaugural event included international representation and a supportive public base, highlighting a hopeful shift in governance amidst economic challenges.
Yamandu Orsi was inaugurated on Saturday as the new president of Uruguay, marking a return to leftist governance after five years under his center-right predecessor, Luis Lacalle Pou. This change occurs as Uruguay celebrates 40 years of stable democracy with a population of 3.4 million.
In his inauguration speech at Montevideo’s Legislative Palace, the 57-year-old Orsi emphasized the strong connection between democracy and social well-being. He honored his mentor, former president Jose “Pepe” Mujica, who supported his campaign despite battling cancer.
Orsi has committed to economic protection, tackling drug-related crime, and fostering sustainable development during his upcoming five-year term. He is the ninth president since the end of a 13-year civil-military dictatorship in 1985, which was notorious for human rights violations.
Supporters of Orsi expressed relief and hope for improvement, indicating dissatisfaction with the previous government. A recent poll shows a 44% favorable opinion for Orsi among voters, suggesting initial confidence in his leadership.
His inauguration was attended by representatives from over 60 countries, and he engaged in discussions with multiple leaders. However, Orsi leads a divided parliament, with his Broad Front coalition only controlling the Senate, facing challenges from internal coalition dynamics.
Orsi’s administration must address social needs without increasing the budget deficit, especially as the economy faces pressure from ongoing drought conditions reducing growth forecasts. Nonetheless, economist Arturo Porzecanski notes that Orsi takes charge of a fundamentally solid national economy.
Yamandu Orsi’s inauguration signifies a pivotal political shift in Uruguay, as the leftist party resumes power after five years. With a commitment to addressing pressing social and economic issues, Orsi’s leadership will face scrutiny regarding internal coalition dynamics and fiscal management. The new president’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial for sustaining Uruguay’s democratic health and addressing citizens’ needs in a turbulent economic landscape.
Original Source: www.iosconews.com
