On Tuesday morning, in front of the World Trade Center in Pocitos, Pedro Bordaberry, former senator and presidential candidate, announced his return to politics. This change marks his return to the spotlight with the list 10 for the Senate of the Colorado Party.
Bordaberry began his press conference by highlighting the need to regenerate Uruguayan politics and focus efforts on the most vulnerable sectors of society. “The country needs to inspire young people, protect children, address child poverty, and generate real hope for the improvement of all,” he emphasized.
With a clear criticism of the current state of the country, he addressed the lack of progress on crucial issues. “I see that in several areas we are not making progress on today’s agenda and I do not see significant progress on the issues that I believe are important for the country,” Bordaberry said, stressing his intention to bring renewal and hope to national politics.
Accompanied by a speech full of commitment and determination, Bordaberry explained that his decision to return to the political scene was not taken lightly. “I have thought a lot about this decision because it is a life decision. Asking for the vote, the most sacred thing, from my compatriots to assume the obligation to work without ceasing, making the maximum effort, that is my commitment.”
Calling for unity, Bordaberry stressed the importance of dialogue and understanding in times of political polarization. “I feel that right now the country needs much more dialogue, much more understanding. I will try to contribute to that with humility and by listening a lot,” he added.
Bordaberry also referred to the importance of the Republican coalition and how its return is part of a broader plan to support Andrés Ojeda’s candidacy for president. “In November, the new president will be elected. I call for a vote in October for list 10 with Ojeda for president and in November for the Republican coalition,” he said.
The announcement of Bordaberry’s return was welcomed by figures from the Colorado Party, including Ojeda himself. “Welcome @PedroBordaberry! Today, more than ever, it is time to Unite to Win!” the presidential candidate expressed on his social networks.
During his speech, Bordaberry stressed his firm will to work against crime and corruption, highlighting the need for a parliament committed to these principles. “I am standing to work firmly with a government that is determined to fight crime, with a parliament that is determined to fight corruption, with a country that is determined to work for the economic improvement of all,” he said. He stressed the urgency of tackling drug trafficking and crime in a decisive and joint manner.
The former senator revealed that before making this announcement, he had consulted with several key political figures, including presidential candidate Andrés Ojeda and other leaders such as Álvaro Delgado, Guido Manini Ríos, Pablo Mieres and Yamandú Orsi. He also mentioned that he had informed President Lacalle Pou of his decision, with whom he maintains a good relationship.
Although he acknowledged the work of the current government in managing the pandemic, Bordaberry expressed his discontent in other areas. “International insertion is one, it seems to me that there is a big debt there where there is a lot to work on. And there are other areas where we are better but not enough. Today I see a despair among Uruguayans in terms of security,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of stopping the advance of drug trafficking and improving the security situation in the country. “We are going to stand together, all together, to stop the advance of drug trafficking in the neighborhoods,” he said.
One of the central axes of his proposal is the fight against corruption. Bordaberry expressed his intention to revive a bill to classify illicit enrichment as a crime and to put an end to secret contracts. “What I think we have to tell people is that we are going to work to end corruption,” he said with conviction.
Despite his return to politics, Bordaberry confirmed that he will not leave his position within Montevideo City Torque, maintaining his ties to the world of football.
Bordaberry and his departure in 2017
In April 2017, Bordaberry announced his retirement from active politics, promising not to head up lists or run for president again after the 2009 and 2014 campaigns. However, in recent years, he has maintained an active role in football, first as president of the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF)’s supervisory committee and then as an advisor to Montevideo City Torque.
The recent registration of his group, Vamos Uruguay, in the National Commission of Electoral Affairs of his party, was seen by many as a sign of his return to political life, something that he has confirmed with his recent announcement.
