New President
Far-right libertarian Javier Milei has emerged as Argentina’s new president, securing a landmark victory with 55.69% of the votes compared to his rival, centre-left finance minister Sergio Massa, who garnered 44.3%. The win, often likened to the political style of Donald Trump, signals a potential shift in Argentina’s economic and political landscape.
Milei, known for his commitment to eradicating inflation, celebrated the victory as the start of Argentina’s reconstruction. His promises of “drastic changes” aim to address the country’s pressing issues of soaring inflation and widespread poverty. The president-elect pledged to abolish the central bank and dollarize the economy, with a vision to lead Argentina out of its severe economic crisis.
Massa, conceding defeat, acknowledged that Argentinians had chosen a different path and announced his retirement from frontline politics. Milei’s victory has been hailed by his supporters as a beacon of hope, with the 53-year-old leader scheduled to take office on December 10.
International figures, including former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and former US President Donald Trump, expressed support for Milei. Bolsonaro called it a victory for “honesty, progress, and freedom,” while Trump praised Milei’s commitment to turning the country around, echoing his “Make Argentina Great Again” sentiment.
Elon Musk, owner of X (formerly Twitter), also congratulated Milei, expressing optimism about prosperity ahead for Argentina.
However, the victory has left left-wing opponents stunned and demoralized, given Milei’s unconventional and radical ideas, including legalizing the sale of organs, cutting ties with major trade partners Brazil and China, and closing over a dozen ministries.
Milei’s presidency is poised to bring significant changes to Argentina’s political and economic landscape, with global attention focused on the unfolding developments under his leadership.
