From humble origins and political heir to José Mujica, Yamandú Orsi promises to renew the left and prioritize dialogue and social inclusion
Left-wing politician Yamandú Orsi is poised to become the next president of Uruguay after his main rival in the second round conceded defeat this Sunday. Even the current president of the South American country congratulated Orsi on his victory.
His victory marks the return of a center-left government to the presidency of Uruguay, after five years of a conservative administration.
But who is Yamandú Orsi?
From a working family to the heir of the left
History teacher, folklore dancer and former mayor, the 57-year-old politician is considered the political heir of former president José Mujica, who accompanied him during the campaign and praised him as a new leader capable of balancing complex social dynamics, political and economic.
Orsi was born on June 13, 1967, in the rural area of the department of Canelones. His father was a winegrower and his mother was a seamstress.
He shares several similarities with his political godfather, such as a love of the countryside and a simple lifestyle. During the campaign, he was frequently photographed drinking mate, walking his dog and wearing casual attire. His administration should begin in March next year, and, like Mujica, Orsi has already stated that he will not live in the presidential residence.
Turned to the left after the dictatorship
While living in the countryside, it was his sister who taught him to read and write. However, the young Orsi began to shape his political views and aspirations in the midst of the Uruguayan dictatorship, which lasted from 1973 to 1983.
After the end of the dictatorship, Orsi joined the Popular Participation Movement, led by Mujica, the former guerrilla who became president in 2010.
He promises a renewed left in Uruguay
Orsi focused his campaign on promoting environmentally responsible policies, supporting small producers and social inclusion initiatives.
He also promised to renew the left by prioritizing dialogue with everyone and assured during the campaign that he does not plan dramatic changes in the country of 3.5 million inhabitants.
While affirming the importance of promoting social well-being, Orsi also adopted a friendly tone towards the market and the private sector.
With information from AP*
Source: https://www.ocafezinho.com/2024/11/25/conheca-yamandu-orsi-o-esquerdista-eleito-presidente-do-uruguai/