Álvaro Delgado, a nationalist candidate, warned of a potential “economic collapse” in Uruguay if the referendum against the social security reform is successful. This referendum is promoted by the Pit-Cnt and sectors of the Frente Amplio. During an event organized by the youth of List 404, Delgado mentioned that this would be the “most important referendum in the last 100 years in economic matters in Uruguay.”
Regarding the financial viability of the changes, Delgado stressed that the plebiscite could destabilize the economy, requiring a significant increase in taxes. “Uruguay is collapsing economically,” he said, emphasizing that the system could only be sustained with a significant increase in taxes. He also warned that the country risk “is going to skyrocket,” affecting overall economic stability.
Tax hikes imminent? The ghost that Delgado is waving around
Delgado told the young activists that approval of the plebiscite could put the guarantee of future pensions at risk. “No one will be able to guarantee their retirement,” he stressed, adding that the situation would be serious if the Yes ballot won. These statements reflect his concern about the long-term impact on the social security system.
Furthermore, when asked how this would impact his government plan, Delgado responded that it would be “obviously conditioned.” According to his estimates, there is not a single economist in the country who denies the need to increase VAT, as well as employer and personal contributions, to deal with what he calls a “catastrophe.”
Politics and economy: the two sides of the plebiscite
Delgado also asked the Yamandú Orsi – Carolina Cosse opposition ticket to take a clear stance and campaign. He indicated that without a firm public position, they will become responsible for the absence of policies for the most vulnerable, arguing that “the money will not be there” due to the financial needs arising from a possible increase in pensions and other associated changes.
In this regard, he urged the Frente Amplio to make an official statement as a political party, recalling its responsibility after having governed. “It cannot give freedom of action,” he said, suggesting the need for a clearly defined position without ambiguity, emphasizing that “we must make a statement and not look the other way.”
Dispute over political discourse
Together with his running mate, Valeria Ripoll, Delgado expressed outrage at the “intellectual dishonesty” he attributed to Orsi after criticizing President Luis Lacalle Pou, who promoted the social security reform. “From now on we are not going to let him get away with anything,” he said, emphasizing that they will not accept what they consider misleading reports in public discourse.
He reflected on the role of the Frente Amplio and its participation in collecting signatures for the plebiscite, suggesting that they are now in a dilemma regarding their internal position. “Any rational person who aspires to govern Uruguay must say that this is a catastrophe,” he said, suggesting that the Frente Amplio formula avoids a direct statement.
The importance of a clear campaign
Insisting that not opposing the plebiscite is an irresponsibility as significant as not expressing an opinion, Delgado pointed out the lack of forcefulness as a cautious and insufficient attitude in the face of what he considers a national collapse. He reiterated his determination to campaign and invite the Frente Amplio ticket to do the same, warning them that if they do not do so, he will hold them responsible not only for the country’s economic collapse, but also for neglecting the most vulnerable.
In response to criticism that Lacalle Pou was politicizing his administration, Delgado defended the actions of the president, who has inaugurated a series of public infrastructures. He said that this is part of the presidential responsibilities and suggested that the criticism may stem from feelings of envy.
Proposals and criticisms within the political scene
Delgado criticised Orsi’s lack of participation in debates and the presentation of proposals, suggesting that the opposition does not have a solid economic team. “They don’t have a single economic team,” he said, questioning the Frente Amplio’s readiness to address economic challenges.
Finally, at an event organised by the young people of List 404, Valeria Ripoll echoed the criticisms of the Frente Amplio. She argued that the opposition party has not presented concrete proposals and is focused on destroying rather than building. “There is not a single proposal,” she accused, suggesting that its programmatic lines are indefinite and full of empty promises.
