Uruguay's Gov't Secretary Defends Official Against 'Bad Taste' Remarks, Criticizes New Appointment

Government Secretary Alejandro Sánchez strongly defended Fabiana Goyeneche, a functionary at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, against what he described as "political violence" and "very bad taste" remarks made by the opposition. The controversy arose during a budget debate where an article, later unanimously rejected by the Chamber of Representatives, was reportedly named after Goyeneche, implying it was intended to benefit her.

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There was political violence against Fabiana Goyeneche, without a doubt.

Sánchez stated that naming the article "article Goyeneche" was "appalling" and "in very bad taste." He clarified that Goyeneche would not have been the sole beneficiary if the article had passed, asserting that its intent was clear and not concealed. He explained that the Frente Amplio bloc ultimately deemed the article unnecessary, leading to its withdrawal.

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I find it appalling that they named an article 'article Goyeneche,' it was in very bad taste.

In a separate matter, Sánchez also voiced his disapproval of the recent appointment of former Artigas mayor Pablo Caram as director of the Departmental Emergency Coordination Center (Cecoed) in Artigas. Sánchez cited concerns over Caram's past use of public funds. However, he acknowledged that the decision was legitimate, made by the current mayor, and that the national government would need to collaborate with Caram on mitigating the effects of the anticipated "El Niño" phenomenon.

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The Frente Amplio bloc understood that the article was not necessary, so it 'died.'

Caram has a prior conviction from 2024, receiving a 14-month suspended sentence for dereliction of duty related to his failure to report offenses by departmental officials during his tenure as mayor.

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It seemed bad to me that Pablo Caram was appointed director of the Cecoed... because of how he has used public funds.