In Uruguay, the unfolding saga surrounding the allegations against former Canelones department (province) mayor and current Presidential pre-candidate for the Broad Front (Frente Amplio), Yamandú Orsi, has taken a dramatic turn as Romina Celeste Papasso, a leader of the National Party (Partido Nacional), was arrested on Monday for fabricating false accusations against Orsi. Furthermore, an arrest warrant has been issued for Paula Díaz, the trans woman who initially filed the criminal complaint against Orsi.
Anti-incumbent sentiment has gripped much of Latin America in recent years, swinging electoral results leftward in Mexico, Colombia, Honduras and Brazil, upending the corrupt coalitions that have long ruled Guatemala, and handing the presidency of Argentina to a self-proclaimed “anarcho-capitalist.” But 2024 may prove to be a good year for establishment politicians. In the five countries with elections on the calendar El Salvador, Panama, Dominican Republic, Uruguay and Mexico insider candidates are polling ahead, at least so far.