The transition of the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) in Uruguay has generated a notable exchange between the teams of Gabriel Oddone and Azucena Arbeleche. In these days, tensions have been evident that have involved President Luis Lacalle Pou, who has indicated that the outgoing government has provided “folders” with economic data that will be completed in February.
After the election of Yamandu Orsi as the new president, immediate contact was established between him and Lacalle Pou. In a subsequent communication, it was defined that the transition could begin when the president-elect decided. The first meeting was held quickly, where Orsi appointed his representatives for this phase.
Clarification of responsibilities
Alejandro Sánchezfuture Secretary of the Presidency, and Jorge Diazformer Court prosecutor, were appointed to lead the process. Later, in a technical meeting, the opportunity arose for both teams to begin exchanging information. However, as the weeks progressed, discrepancies began to emerge regarding the quantity and quality of information shared.
One of the main points of discussion has been economic information. He Wide Front has demanded more data, while Lacalle Pou has defended the sufficiency of the information provided, pointing out that “three or four folders had been delivered so far.” This discrepancy has resulted in visible tensions between the teams.
The response of the economic team
Martin Vallcorbawho will take over as Undersecretary of Economy, indicated that the information provided so far is “essentially public information.” According to him, what has been offered does not represent what is relevant to understanding the current state of public finances and that fundamental information has not yet been delivered to the new team.
The lack of data on crucial elements has been one of the most recurring complaints. Vallcorba has specifically mentioned the need for figures on the “fiscal closing 2024” and the fiscal projection for the year 2025. In this sense, the Arbeleche team has communicated that the projection previously presented will be maintained.
Is the documentation provided sufficient?
Presidency sources have detailed that a 35-page executive summary, prepared for Oddone’s team, was delivered. This document includes various information, along with “folders” that contain data about the fiscal policythe social securityand other strategic elements necessary for the management of the new government.
The first annex of the documents includes details on the fiscal policycovering “guidelines, indebtedness, and effective results.” Another section addresses the social securityincluding a Reform Bill for the Professional Fund. This type of information is considered essential for future management.
Future screenings and meetings
The incoming team has indicated its concern about the lack of relevant data for adequate economic management. According to outgoing government sources, the details about “investments or expenses” They will be available once the collection process is complete.
Additionally, the 2024 fiscal deficit is anticipated to be published at the end of January. This marks a crucial point in the relationship between the current teams and the one that will take over, since the exchange of appropriate information is vital for a smooth transition.
New challenges on the horizon
The elected president, Yamandú Orsi, returns from his vacation to resume the formation of his cabinet. However, already faces challenges in relation to the information it has received from outgoing portfolios. The lack of clarity has been a recurring theme among members of his team, who criticize the transparency of the data received.
Several meetings are expected between future ministers and their current counterparts to address these issues. Next week will be crucial to establish the necessary agreements to ensure the flow of adequate information.
