Uruguay Commission Concludes Probe into Ranch Purchase; Political Divisions Emerge

Uruguay's Chamber of Representatives is nearing the end of its investigative commission's work into the National Colonization Institute's (INC) controversial purchase of the María Dolores ranch for approximately US$32.5 million. The commission, which began its sessions in March after several failed attempts to be approved, has heard testimony from authorities within the Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture, and Fisheries (MGAP).

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It is important to reassure not only the settlers but also the general population that the purchase was framed within the government's programs and priorities.

Four separate reports are slated for presentation to the full Chamber of Deputies: one from the ruling Frente Amplio (FA) coalition, another from the National and Colorado parties (blancos y colorados), a third from Cabildo Abierto (CA), and a fourth from Identidad Soberana. The timing of the presentation is still under discussion, potentially being postponed until August due to the upcoming presentation of the national budget accountability report (Rendición de Cuentas).

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It has become clear that the purchase was in accordance with the law and that there is a productive process underway that is already yielding results.

Sebastián Valdomir, the FA deputy and president of the commission, expressed confidence that the purchase was conducted legally and aligns with government priorities. He highlighted that over 10,600 hectares have already been deeded by the INC, fulfilling a government commitment. Valdomir stated that the commission found no irregularities or harm to state assets during its three-month investigation, citing the successful distribution of corn planted between December and January as evidence of the ongoing productive process benefiting small dairy farmers.

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It has become clear that in three months of work, no irregularity or damage to state assets could be verified.

Conversely, opposition members, including Colorado Party deputy Carlos Rydström, have reaffirmed their initial denunciations. Rydström emphasized the opposition's role in safeguarding public resources and seeking efficient, transparent public policies. While not detailing the opposition's findings yet, he indicated their report would focus on these principles. Cabildo Abierto (CA) has accused the process of being a "political show," suggesting a deep division among the commission members regarding the legitimacy and implications of the INC's land acquisition.

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It has been reaffirmed that some of the complaints we made about this matter are valid.