Diplomatist Magazine Diplomatist August 2018

SPOTLIGHT L atin America and the Caribbean region are witnessing a political change in 2018. A number of large and small nations have gone to the ballot to elect new governments and some are scheduled to go to elections in the coming months. In a matter of just six months, the ﬁ rst - (Brazil), second - (Mexico), and fourth - (Colombia) – largest economies of the region will choose new presidents; this simultaneous changeover is likely to have political and economic consequences given the current international situation as a result of the United States’ economic policies. The common factor that binds the elections together is the disdain for widespread corrup-tion and the demand for accountability. And while Latin America and the Caribbean region have been experiencing modest economic growths, governments have to ﬁ nd answers to the growing demands of the people - reduce poverty and provide jobs. Some countries such as Cuba and Mexico are continuing with the reform processes, others are looking at means to bring change. Here is a brief look at Cuba, Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela and Paraguay. President Bermudez’s election is much needed to not only make the party, but also the ideology, relevant to the young generation of Cubans. He has, till now, followed the policies and reforms that were started by President Castro during his tenure. It is likely that one will notice President Bermú dez views on Cuban politics after 2021, when Mr. Castro steps down as the head of the Communist Party of Cuba and relinquishes all powers. Cuba Under the reform process started by Former President Raul Castro, Cuba elected its president in elections held earlier in the year. President Miguel Mario Dí az-Canel Bermú dez is the ﬁ rst civilian president of Cuba, who does not share the famous surname and is also the ﬁ rst president to be born after the revolution. These factors allow him to bridge the gap between those who fought in the revolution and the current generation of electorate that has been born decades after the revolution and in a globalised digital world. This new generation views the world differently and has needs to be economically engaged. The focal point of President- elect Obrador’s campaign was to end corruption and bring about transparency in the government. Cuban President Miguel Mario Dí az- Canel Bermú dez Mexico Mr. André s Manuel Ló pez Obrador, from the National Regeneration Movement (Morena) party, has won the elections (by 53.19 percent votes) to be the next president of Mexico. His inauguration will be on 01 December, after the new Mexican Congress assumes power on 01 September. President-elect of Morena has also captured a majority in the Senate and Chamber of Deputies, marking the ﬁ rst time any candidate has won both chambers since 1997. President-elect of Mexico André s Manuel Ló pez Obrador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Diplomatist • Vol 6 • Issue 8 • August 2018, Noida • 33

Diplomatist Magazine Diplomatist August 2018 | Page 33