Friday, May 29, 2009

Role Reversal

The Washington Post comes out against Álvaro Uribe's third term:
Mr. Uribe said recently that he is conflicted about a reelection bid; while acknowledging that it might weaken democracy, he said he is worried about preserving his "democratic security" policy. But at least one worthy successor is available: Defense Minister Juan Manuel Santos recently resigned and said he would run for president if Mr. Uribe did not. If he remains in office, Mr. Uribe would run the risk of undermining his own successes; some of his strongest supporters could turn against him, and the good relations he has enjoyed with the United States could come under strain. Better that the president choose to step down and give his country a last great gift, by strengthening the political system he has fought so hard to save.

1 comment:

jd said...

But if Uribe leaves office, which right-wing LatAm leader will be the lucky recipient of Jackson Diehl's compulsive fellating? Juan Manuel Santos would be a decent if imperfect substitute, or maybe Pinera if he wins in Chile, but for the WaPo ed board there's probably no replacing Uribe's sweet juices.