Andrés Ojeda has been appointed as the new secretary-general of Uruguay’s Colorado Party, succeeding former President Julio María Sanguinetti. Ojeda, who recently ran for president and placed third, promises to engage with the incoming government. His leadership aims to unify the party, which has been vacant since Sanguinetti’s resignation, and to strengthen its political influence in the future.
Senator-elect Andrés Ojeda has been appointed as the new secretary-general of Uruguay’s Colorado Party, taking over from the esteemed former President Julio María Sanguinetti, who served two terms from 1985 to 1990 and 1995 to 2000. At the age of 40, Ojeda gained prominence when he secured third place in the recent presidential election held on October 27, where he represented the Colorado Party. The party’s National Executive Committee endorsed his Unir para Crecer (Unite to Grow) list over the Vamos Uruguay faction led by Pedro Bordaberry. To maintain balance within the party, Ariel Amen from Vamos Uruguay was named Pro-Secretary-General. Ojeda expressed optimism regarding future engagements with the incoming government led by President-elect Yamandú Orsi, stating, “The Colorado Party is here to talk, to listen when the government considers it pertinent.”
In his statement, Ojeda emphasized that this new role signifies a fresh start for the Colorado Party, suggesting they can reestablish themselves as a significant governing force. He expressed his commitment with sincerity, saying, “I am here, I am staying here, I am not going anywhere…have no doubt,” highlighting his determination for the party’s long-term presence in Uruguayan politics. He acknowledged the challenges of their recent electoral performance but underlined the importance of a strong parliamentary leadership that does not overshadow the party’s objectives. The position of secretary-general had been empty since Sanguinetti’s resignation earlier this year, despite his continued influence within the ruling Multicolor coalition led by President Luis Lacalle Pou. Previously, Gustavo Yiyo Osta held the Pro-Secretary-General position until Ojeda’s election.
The Colorado Party, one of Uruguay’s historical political factions, has undergone significant changes in leadership over recent years, particularly following the tenure of former President Julio María Sanguinetti. As the party positions itself for upcoming electoral challenges, the new secretary-general, Andrés Ojeda, represents a younger generation of leadership aiming to reconnect with voters and redefine the party’s objectives. His recent presidential candidacy and the current political landscape indicate the necessity for the party to solidify its relevance and influence in national governance, especially as new leaders from the leftist Frente Amplio coalition prepare to take office.
In summary, the Colorado Party has appointed Andrés Ojeda as its new secretary-general, marking a pivotal leadership change after the resignation of Julio María Sanguinetti. Ojeda’s commitment to revitalizing the party and improving its standing in Uruguayan politics is noteworthy. His statements reflect both a determination to engage with the incoming administration and a desire to unify the party’s factions as they prepare for future electoral contests, aiming to reestablish themselves as a significant governing force in the nation.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com