Uruguay president celebrates deal securing votes for accountability report

Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi expressed satisfaction with a political agreement reached with Guido Manini Ríos, the leader of the opposition party Cabildo Abierto. The deal secures the support of Cabildo Abierto's two deputies for the government's Rendición de Cuentas, a crucial accountability report that requires legislative approval.

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Always good news to know that the votes are there. He came to meet me at Torre Ejecutiva where he made his proposals and a few days later he had my response.

The agreement is vital for the ruling Frente Amplio coalition, which needed two extra votes to guarantee the necessary majority for the bill's passage. Manini Ríos announced the deal, stating that the government had accepted all or part of his party's proposals. He preemptively dismissed criticism from other opposition factions, particularly the National and Colorado parties, labeling their reactions as "loaded with hypocrisy and cynicism."

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It is auspicious because it allows us to have the general vote. It is not common in the history of Uruguay's democratic life not to vote on an Accountability Report, except in exceptional situations.

Speaking to reporters, President Orsi highlighted the importance of securing votes for institutional stability, noting that it's uncommon for Uruguay's accountability reports to face significant hurdles. He expressed optimism that beyond Cabildo Abierto's support, other opposition legislators might also vote in favor of the bill in its general approval phase, before individual articles are debated.

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reactions loaded with hypocrisy and cynicism

Manini Ríos reiterated that Cabildo Abierto is not part of the broader Republican Coalition opposition bloc. He emphasized that his party followed through on its stated intention to analyze the government's proposal, present necessary improvements, and support it if the response was positive. He contrasted his party's approach with that of the National, Colorado, and independent parties, who announced they would not vote for the bill in general but might support specific articles.

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Orsi gave a response 'on all points,' showing 'understanding' and 'flexibility.'