Ibero-American news: Sánchez announces he will not resign in Spain, Deputies approve reform bill in Argentina, Uruguay’s former President Mujica has cancer

Marina Vanni,  May 1, 2024

Pedro Sánchez does not resign from office

After days of speculation, Pedro Sanchez confirmed this Monday, April 29, that he will remain at the head of the Spanish government.

In his speech, the leader of the Socialist Party (PSOE) promised to "work tirelessly, firmly and serenely for the pending regeneration of our democracy". He also assured that he will perform his duties "with more strength".

His announcement comes after last Friday Sanchez published an open letter on Twitter/X saying he would take a few days to reflect on his political future. The reason for his publication stems from a judicial investigation against his wife, Begoña Gómez, for alleged corruption and influence peddling and the attacks that, according to Sánchez, they both suffered following the complaint.

Meanwhile, the political forces are concentrating on the electoral campaign on the day of the regional elections, to be held on May 12. European elections are also approaching on June 9.

Argentine deputies approve the so-called "Omnibus Law"

After more than 20 hours of uninterrupted discussion, Argentina’s Chamber of Deputies approved in general the reform package of Javier Milei’s government known as the "Omnibus Law".

The bill addresses changes in the structure of the state, modifies the calculation of pensions, promotes labor flexibilization and privatizations, and establishes a public emergency in the administrative, economic, financial and energy areas for one year in order to provide legislative powers to the Executive Branch, among other aspects.

The number of articles of the text was reduced to less than half compared to the one presented in January, when the initiative of the Libertarian administration failed.

After the green light from the deputies, granted on Tuesday, April 30, the bill will be discussed by chapters and then forwarded to the Senate.

José Mujica announces he has esophageal cancer

The former president of Uruguay, José "Pepe" Mujica, revealed this Monday in a press conference that he has a tumor that is difficult to treat due to his pre-existing immune disease. The political referent made the announcement after a health check-up in a hospital accompanied by his wife and said: "It is something obviously compromised".

The 88-year-old former president, who led the Uruguayan executive power between 2010 and 2015 with the Frente Amplio and promoted progressive reforms, explained that the cancer affected his kidneys, which complicates possible treatments.

Author: Marina Vanni