Following on to my most recent diary which I published nearly a year ago (good heavens!) there is further good news from the South American nation of Uruguay. Today, the progressive Broad Front candidate for president, Tabare Vazquez, was elected (or, in a sense, re-elected). For more details, head below the orange cloud of freedom.
Long story short: Vazquez was president from 2005 - 2010. The Uruguay constitution does not permit successive terms by a president, so he was succeeded by his Broad Front colleague, Jose Mujica. Vazquez has, in turn, succeeded Mujica, extending the government's hold on power against the center-right for another five years. Broad Front also won an narrow majority in Congress last month, so they have effective control of the government.
Why is this important? First, this win maintains that Uruguay is out from under the two decades of conservative rule after the military dictatorship was overthrown.
Second, Vazquez has pledged to continue the progressive reforms of Mujica and the party, first on legalization of cannabis, and also on same-sex marriage.
He will also oversee Uruguay's legalization of the state-controlled production, distribution and sale of cannabis.
Vazquez, who lacks Mujica's folksy charisma, endorsed the cannabis law but was less enthusiastic about it than the outgoing president and has said he might modify it, depending on its impact.
Mujica's reforms to legalize gay marriage and abortion as well as marijuana cemented Uruguay's reputation as one of Latin America's most liberal nations, but upset conservative voters.
Another win for our people. WOOHOO!