The recent runoff in Uruguay, which culminated with the victory of Yamandú Orsi of the Broad Front on Álvaro Delgado of the National Party, has generated a strong crossover between the members of the ruling coalition. Nicolas Oliveramayor of Paysandú and co-religionist of the senator Sebastian Da Silva in the PN, expressed his dissatisfaction with the attitude of the latter during the electoral process.
Olivera openly criticized Da Silva for having retired from the campaign command on election day, where he considered that his departure was a gesture of lack of commitment. In statements to the 12 PM program (Azul FM), Olivera stressed that “Almost nothing that Senator Da Silva says represents me. A man who leaves on an important day for the coalition, for the country, for our party, leaves a command saying ‘I am not going to be the face of defeat’«.
Recriminations and differentiations
The mayor continued his criticism, calling Da Silva’s action a “cowardly attitude.” Olivera emphasized that in his role as mayor and in public service, the principle of “Showing your face” is essentialemphasizing that it is not just about speaking into microphones, but also about assuming the responsibilities that come with leadership. “Da Silva has no idea what it means to show his face. It’s easy to stand in front of a microphone and say something outrageous.”, he stated.
In contrast, Sebastián Da Silva was quick to respond to the criticism. Using his account on the social network X, he responded to Olivera harshly, pointing out that “It is cowardly to be eating canapé watching them beat you in Paysandú.” This confrontation reveals not only personal disagreements, but also a fragmentation in the National Party’s discourse after a significant electoral defeat.
It is cowardly to be eating canapé watching them beat you in Paysandu.
The face of defeat is that of the Mayor who loses in his region.
From Luc to Sunday //t.co/XdJm4sMo0g— Sebastian Da Silva (@camboue) November 26, 2024
Consequences of defeat
The mention of Paysandú as a bastion that was lost in the recent electoral contest is an element that resonates in the internal debate of the National Party. “The face of defeat is that of the mayor who loses in his region”Da Silva stated, marking a clear line between his vision and that of Olivera regarding the responsibility that both assume for the electoral results.
The disagreement between these two representatives of the National Party highlights the tensions that are evident after the runoff and raises questions about the future of the coalition. The leadership and unity of its members will be crucial if the party hopes to recover and refocus on the challenges ahead.
