Leftist opposition candidate Yamandú Orsi wins the presidency in Uruguay

Yamandú Orsi, representing Uruguay’s left-wing Broad Front coalition, secured a narrow victory in the presidential runoff on Sunday, defeating the centre-right ruling coalition candidate, Álvaro Delgado. Orsi’s win marks a return to power for the Broad Front, which governed Uruguay from 2005 to 2020, following five years of conservative leadership under President Luis Lacalle Pou.

Delgado, conceding with grace, told supporters, “With sadness, but without guilt, we can congratulate the winner,” acknowledging Orsi’s triumph in a race that saw nearly 90% voter turnout. Orsi garnered just over 49% of the vote to Delgado’s 46%, with the remaining votes either blank or abstained.

Orsi, a 57-year-old former history teacher and two-time mayor, celebrated with supporters in Montevideo, vowing to unite the nation after the closely contested election. He emphasised inclusivity, saying, “We need everyone to help build a better country.”

Despite global trends of anti-establishment populism, Uruguay’s election maintained its reputation for political moderation. Orsi’s platform reflects continuity rather than drastic change, focusing on addressing childhood poverty, combating organised crime, and revitalising agriculture through tax incentives. He plans to maintain the Broad Front’s hallmark blend of market-friendly policies and social welfare programs.

The victory reflects growing voter dissatisfaction with economic stagnation and rising crime during the Lacalle Pou administration, despite high approval ratings and signs of economic recovery. Orsi also signalled likely shifts in foreign policy, including a reconsideration of a trade deal with China that had strained Uruguay’s ties within the Mercosur bloc.

Orsi, described as a protégé of former President José “Pepe” Mujica, will assume office on March 1, 2025. His win underscores a broader trend of anti-incumbent sentiment across the globe while reaffirming Uruguay’s commitment to political stability and measured progress.