"Clouds pass, blue remains": Lacalle Pou reappears as "veteran militant," energizing National Party

Former Uruguayan President Luis Lacalle Pou made a notable reappearance at a National Party event, addressing the party faithful with an energy reminiscent of a "veteran militant."

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The clouds pass… the blue remains.

Speaking during the celebration of the National Party's 190th anniversary, Lacalle Pou invoked a quote from his great-grandfather, Luis Alberto de Herrera: "The clouds pass... the blue remains." This phrase, which he had previously used upon winning the presidency, resonated with the crowd and signaled his return to the political stage after a period of lower profile since leaving office. Militants greeted him with chants of "president, president," eager for his return to public discourse.

Lacalle Pou described himself as "untrained" and "veteran," reflecting on his term. He stated that his government left him "satisfied, but not content," suggesting a desire for continued progress. He also shared a personal sentiment, admitting to feeling "melancholy" during his final months in the presidency, a confession that prompted a supportive cry from the audience: "But you will return."

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But you will return.

The former president also touched upon his evolving political stance, noting he has become "less orthodox" and characterizing his government as "humanist." He reiterated his concept of freedom, which involves a significant role for the state, particularly in addressing issues like housing, healthcare, and employment. He explicitly distanced himself from more radical liberal positions, such as those of Argentine President Javier Milei, by stating, "How nice to be orthodox and talk about freedom when someone has no home, no health, no work and cannot raise their children."

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How nice to be orthodox and talk about freedom when someone has no home, no health, no work and cannot raise their children.

Furthermore, Lacalle Pou criticized leaders who "insult, who offend, who disqualify" instead of acting as unifying figures. He emphasized the importance of "union" and "idea," core concepts within the National Party's emblem, urging unity among those who share the party's vision. While internal discussions about potential electoral coalitions are ongoing, Lacalle Pou clarified that his remarks were not about an "electoral appearance."

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I am talking about the whole spectrum.