Uruguay Voting began this Sunday to elect the president’s successor in a runoff Luis Lacalle For after the first round held in October in which no candidate reached the absolute majority necessary to win.
The leftist opponent, Yamandu Orsi, similar to former president José “Pepe” Mujica, is measured against the center-right official, Alvaro Delgadoformer secretary of the presidency of Lacalle Pou, in a race that the polls predict a very close race.
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The voting centers opened at 8:00 a.m. and will close at 7:30 p.m. local time, although at that time there are still people in line will be allowed to pay.
Given the high parity in voting intentions, private pollsters said that they do not plan to give their scrutiny projections, which they will make based on results in selected voting circuits as an example, until after 9 p.m. at night.
The Electoral Court He hopes to have the official result around midnight, although if it were too close it would not be possible to determine a winner on Sunday night.
The Minister of the Court, José Korzeniaksaid that in that case we will have to wait for the counting of the observed votes, which will “probably” end on Wednesday or Thursday.
On October 27, Orsi obtained 43.9% of the voteswell ahead of Delgado (26.7%), although he now has the support of all the parties in the official coalition, which together obtained 47.7%.
More than 2.7 million Uruguayans are eligible to vote, which is mandatory. to win the ballot does not need to exceed 50% of the votes, as required in the first round, but it is enough to obtain the greatest number of votes.
Lacalle Pou, constitutionally prevented from seeking immediate re-election, will hand over the presidential sash to the winner on March 1, 2025for a term of five years.
(With information from AFP)
MC
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What are the key issues that Uruguayan voters are considering in the presidential runoff?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Political Analyst Dr. Valentina Gómez
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good morning, Dr. Gómez. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the election happening in Uruguay.
Dr. Valentina Gómez (VG): Good morning! It’s a pleasure to be here.
TNE: The voting for the presidential runoff just began in Uruguay. Can you give us an overview of the candidates in this race?
VG: Absolutely. This runoff is primarily between the leftist candidate Yamandu Orsi, who is reminiscent of former president José “Pepe” Mujica, and the center-right candidate Alvaro Delgado. Delgado was the former secretary of the presidency under Luis Lacalle Pou. It’s a significant moment for Uruguay, with both candidates representing very different political ideologies.
TNE: What can you tell us about the political landscape leading up to this election? Why do you think no candidate secured an absolute majority in the first round?
VG: The first round of voting revealed a highly fragmented political landscape in Uruguay. While Lacalle Pou was a popular president, there are discontented segments of the population, particularly related to economic issues. The rise of Orsi, who embodies a more leftist agenda, indicates a shift for some voters. It’s a reflection of the public’s desire for change, even as they also grapple with the stability that a center-right presence has provided.
TNE: Given the polling results showing a very close race, what factors should voters consider when making their decision today?
VG: Voters should consider various factors, such as each candidate’s stance on key issues—like economic policy, social justice, and public health. Orsi is likely to focus on social welfare policies reminiscent of Mujica’s era, while Delgado might appeal more to fiscal prudence and continuity. It’s crucial for voters to reflect on what they prioritize for their country’s future.
TNE: How significant is voter turnout in this election, and what is the expectation in terms of participation?
VG: Voter turnout is critical. High participation often correlates with a mandate derived from the electorate, which can lend legitimacy to the winner. Given that the voting centers opened early and will remain open until 7:30 p.m., even with lines of voters still present, we may see a robust turnout. Engagement in this runoff shows the importance of each individual’s voice in shaping the future of Uruguay.
TNE: what do you think this election means for the region as a whole?
VG: This election is a microcosm of broader trends in Latin America, where the electorate is increasingly polarized, grappling with economic challenges and social inequalities. Regardless of today’s outcome, it signifies a critical moment for democratic engagement and might influence political movements in neighboring countries. The result may also impact regional economies and political alliances, depending on who takes the presidency.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Gómez, for your insights on this crucial event. We look forward to seeing how the elections unfold and their implications for Uruguay and the region.
VG: Thank you for having me! It’s certainly an exciting time for Uruguayan politics.