MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Uruguayan President insists on creating a Justice Ministry

“I thought it was a proposal of the parties; I hope that it is, that it continues to be, that it has not changed,” Orsi argued

Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi defended his idea to create a Justice Ministry. Speaking at a press conference, Orsi noted that the idea was previously supported by multiple parties and was under discussion. The presidential proposal faces criticism from opposition legislators, particularly National Party Senator Javier García, who argued that current political conditions do not support the ministry, in addition to raising concerns about judicial independence

Colorado Party Senator Robert Silva acknowledged his political force's past support for the idea but highlighted internal disagreements and the need to assess current circumstances. Fellow Colorado Senator Gabriel Gurméndez opposed the ministry, citing risks of bureaucratization and politicization of justice.

Sovereign Identity’s Representative Gustavo Salle Lorier rejected the proposal outright, arguing it violates constitutional principles that assign justice administration to the Judiciary.

The debate reflects concerns over judicial independence and political motivations, with skepticism crossing party lines.

“What is happening is that at least three parties had [in the past] proposed to do it, that is to say that we will find a solution because it is in the programs of the parties,” insisted Orsi after a sporting event at Parque Huracán alongside Uruguayan Football Association President Ignacio Alonso.

Asked about Nationalist Senator Javier García's claims that there was “no margin” to discuss this project at present, Orsi replied that “I thought it was a proposal of the parties; I hope that it is, that it continues to be, that it has not changed.”

The Head of State admitted that he was at least hopeful that consensus would be achieved regarding the appointment of a Chief Prosecutor following Jorge Díaz's departure: “At least that, hopefully, we will come to an agreement with that.”

According to Montevideo media, the idea of creating a Justice Ministry was conceived to find Jorge Díaz a job.

“The Frente Amplio government, with the background it has in relation to the Prosecutor's Office and Díaz, does not give guarantees of respecting the independence of the Judicial Power and of the whole justice system,” García insisted.