The senator-elect Alfredo Frattifrom the Popular Participation Movement (MPP), has discussed the possibility of joining the cabinet of President-elect Yamandú Orsi in the new Frente Amplio government. Fratti is considered a possible candidate to lead the Ministry of Livestock, Agriculture and Fisheries (MGAP).
In an interview conducted by VTV Noticias, Fratti clarified that his future appointment depends on the criteria of the president-elect. “What happens is that at this point, after ten years in the National Meat Institute (INAC)in the Livestock Commission (of Deputies) and now a member of the Senate… If the president understands that he needs us, I think there is not much return,” he indicated.
Originally from Cerro Largo and trained in veterinary medicine, Fratti has been closely related to the rural area since its beginnings. His experience in livestock and agriculture reinforces his suitability to lead the MGAP, according to his own statements and the perception within the party he represents.
In addition to addressing his potential role in the cabinet, the senator-elect also criticized the management of the current government of Luis Lacalle Pou in relation to the agricultural sector. Fratti stated that, from his point of view, the Lacalle Pou government only “has the slogan,” which suggests disagreement with the implemented policies.
Criticisms of the current management of agriculture
Fratti argued that there is a disconnect between government promises and concrete actions. He mentioned that, despite his knowledge of agriculture and his interactions with colleagues in the sector, he has not been able to identify specific measures adopted by the current administration. “What is the measure that this government took towards the agricultural sector? And they couldn’t answer me, I don’t know either. I think none,” he stated.
The senator-elect also referred to the government’s recent intention to sign a free trade agreement (FTA) with China, describing it as “like Alice in Wonderland.” This expression denotes skepticism towards the promises of the current government regarding the opening of markets for the agricultural sector.
Replica of Sebastián Da Silva
Upon reading these statements, the senator of the National Party, Sebastian Da Silvawho is also a wealthy agricultural producer, came out to defend the government of Lacalle Pou and the National Party. “Ours is a rural government. We’ll see the next one. If not, we’re going to shake them. Beware of dizziness. In the Uruguayan countryside we are few and we know each other. In Paraguay too. We will meet at the hoses. Always on the side of the producer,” the right-wing legislator wrote on X.com.
In another post, Da Silva commented: “If the President-elect proposes measures to protect the farm, he will have my vote. “I’ve always thought the same thing.”
Expectations about Orsi’s cabinet
In a context of speculation about the future cabinet, Yamandú Orsi has announced that the formation of his team will be announced within a period of fifteen to twenty days. This designation is expected to be carried out comprehensively or, at most, in two stages, indicating a planned strategy for a smooth transition.
To date, some names are known who will occupy important positions in the new government. Gabriel Oddone has been confirmed for the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Alejandro Sánchez will take over as the Secretary of the Presidency, and Jorge Díaz has been appointed to the Deputy Secretary of the Presidency, while the possibility of creating a Ministry of Justice is being evaluated.
Balance in the new cabinet
Fratti positions itself in a framework where a balance within the future cabinet, trying to align the party’s strengths with the demands of the agricultural sector. His potential appointment to the MGAP could be an attempt to revitalize the relationship between the government and producersas well as reorienting policies towards greater attention to the countryside.
Fratti’s consideration for this role suggests that the new government is willing to integrate critical voices within its cabinet, which could favor a more inclusive approach to agricultural policy decision-making. This, in turn, could have repercussions on how relations between the government and the agricultural sector develop in the coming years.
