Javier Milei Emerges as Argentina's New President
In a political earthquake, Argentine voters have chosen the unconventional far-right libertarian, Javier Milei, 53, as their next president. With nearly all votes tallied, Milei secured an impressive 56% in the decisive run-off, outpacing his left-wing opponent, Sergio Massa, who garnered 44%.
The victory of this radical newcomer has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. Notably, former US President Donald Trump expressed his approval, suggesting that Milei would “Make Argentina Great Again.” Brazil's ex-leader, Jair Bolsonaro, echoed sentiments of renewed hope in South America.
Often nicknamed “El Loco” (the madman) by critics, Milei promises sweeping changes, including adopting the dollar over the local currency, the peso, and a radical overhaul of the central bank. His proposals extend to cutting welfare payments, streamlining bureaucracy by closing ministries, and addressing social issues such as loosening gun laws, opposing abortion, and advocating for the sale and purchase of human organs.
Javier Milei's victory unfolds against the backdrop of Argentina's deep economic crisis, marked by a staggering annual inflation rate of 143% and 40% of the population living in poverty.
While pre-election polls indicated Javier Milei's lead, the magnitude of his victory, surpassing 11% according to preliminary results, surprised many observers. Massa, the outgoing left-wing government's economy minister, swiftly conceded defeat, acknowledging that the results were not as anticipated.
Political analysts attribute Milei's success to his aggressive style and promise to dismantle the political establishment, which he blames for the country's troubles. In his victory speech, Milei declared the end of a decadent model and pledged a new era for Argentina, emphasizing a return to global power through the adoption of the Libertarian model.
Amid celebrations in Buenos Aires, where supporters hailed the prospect of change, economists remain cautious. They point out that Milei's party holds only a small number of seats in Argentina's Congress, necessitating negotiations with the same politicians he criticized during his campaign.
Despite his anti-establishment rhetoric, Milei has shown a willingness to collaborate politically, as seen when he ceased attacks on third-placed candidate Patricia Bullrich after the first round. In his victory speech, he expressed gratitude to Bullrich and former President Mauricio Macri, who endorsed him.
While many celebrate Milei's victory as a breath of fresh air, concerns linger regarding its implications for Argentine society. Milei's choice of Victoria Villarruel as vice president raised eyebrows among human rights advocates. Villarruel, with ties to a military family, has defended officers convicted of crimes against humanity and proposed dismantling a museum commemorating victims of Argentina's military junta.
Javier Milei and Villarruel are set to be sworn in on December 10 for a four-year term, ushering in a new and uncertain chapter in Argentine politics.
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