INTERNATIONAL ELECTIONS November 2024

‍1) Uruguay:- In November 2024, Uruguay conducted a pivotal presidential runoff election, resulting in the victory of Yamandú Orsi, the center-left Broad Front (Frente Amplio) candidate. Orsi, a former history teacher and two-term mayor of Canelones, secured approximately 49.8% of the vote, surpassing Álvaro Delgado of the ruling center-right National Party, who garnered about 45.9%. This election marked the Broad Front's return to power after a five-year hiatus, reflecting a regional trend of leftist resurgences in Latin America.

Orsi's campaign emphasized national unity, economic growth, and social welfare. He pledged to attract investment, enhance worker skills, and improve social services without increasing taxes. Additionally, Orsi advocated for stronger cooperation with Europe to combat drug trafficking and proposed increased funding for the prison system to address rising crime rates.

Summary:- The election process was noted for its civility and high voter turnout, with nearly 90% of eligible voters participating. Both Delgado and outgoing President Luis Lacalle Pou promptly conceded and extended congratulations to Orsi, ensuring a smooth transition of power. This peaceful electoral process underscored Uruguay's reputation as one of Latin America's most stable democracies.

Orsi is set to assume office on March 1, 2025, alongside Vice President-elect Carolina Cosse, the current mayor of Montevideo. Their administration faces challenges such as high living costs, inequality, and violent crime. However, with the Broad Front holding a majority in the Senate, Orsi is positioned to implement his agenda effectively, aiming to build a more integrated and equitable society.

2) American Samoa:- In November 2024, American Samoa held its gubernatorial elections, culminating in a runoff on November 19. The initial election on November 5 featured three candidate teams: Pulaali'i Nikolao Pula with running mate Pulu Ae Ae Jr., incumbent Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga with Lieutenant Governor Laapui Talauega Eleasalo Ale, and Vaitautolu Talia Iaulualo with Maefau Dr. Mary Taufetee. Pula and Pulu led the first round with 42.4% of the vote, followed by Lemanu and Laapui at 36.2%, and Vaitautolu and Taufetee at 21.4%. As no team secured the required majority, a runoff was scheduled between the top two contenders.

The runoff election resulted in a decisive victory for Pula and Pulu, who garnered 59.8% of the 9,771 votes cast, while incumbents Lemanu and Laapui received 40.2%. This outcome marked a significant shift in the territory's leadership, as Pula and Pulu are affiliated with the Republican Party, whereas the incumbents were Democrats

Pula Nikolao Pula, the governor-elect, brings extensive experience from his tenure as Director of the Office of Insular Affairs, where he served from 2002 to 2022. His running mate, Pulu Ae Ae Jr., has a background in public service as a former mayor of Pago Pago and member of the American Samoa House of Representatives. Their campaign emphasized transparency, accountability, and economic development, resonating with voters seeking change.

Summary:- The election process was conducted smoothly, with a high voter turnout reflecting the citizens' engagement in their governance. The transition of power is anticipated to proceed without significant challenges, underscoring American Samoa's commitment to democratic principles. Pula and Pulu are set to assume office on January 3, 2025, ushering in a new era of leadership for the territory.

3) Guam :- In the November 5, 2024, general elections, Guam's political landscape experienced a significant shift as the Republican Party secured a majority in the 38th Guam Legislature, capturing nine of the fifteen seats. This marks the first time in 16 years that Republicans have held legislative control, signalling a notable change in the territory's governance.

The election results also highlighted the success of several Democratic incumbents. Speaker Therese Terlaje led the senatorial race with 19,995 votes, followed by Senator Chris Barnett with 17,967 votes. Their strong performance indicates continued support for experienced Democratic leaders within the electorate.

The Republican majority introduces four newcomers to the legislature: Sabrina Matanane, Shelly Calvo, Vincent Borja, and Shawn Gumataotao. Their election reflects the voters' desire for fresh perspectives and a shift toward Republican policies. Notably, incumbents from both parties, including Democrats Roy Quinata and Dwayne San Nicolas, as well as Republicans Joanne Brown and Thomas Fisher, were unsuccessful in their re-election bids, underscoring the dynamic nature of this election cycle.

Summary:- The 2024 legislative elections were conducted smoothly, with a voter turnout of 48.3%, demonstrating the community's engagement in the democratic process. The transition to a Republican-led legislature is expected to bring changes in policy direction, reflecting the evolving political sentiments of Guam's residents.

4) Northern Mariana Island US House Delegate Elections:- In the November 5, 2024, general elections, the Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) elected Kimberlyn King-Hinds, a Republican, as their delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives. King-Hinds secured 40.34% of the vote, defeating Democratic candidate Ed Propst, who received 33.27%, and independent candidates John Gonzales and James Rayphand, who garnered 18.67% and 5.44%, respectively.

This election marked a significant political shift, as King-Hinds became the first Republican and the first woman to hold the NMI's delegate seat since its establishment in 2009. Her victory also contributed to a historic moment where, for the first time, all three Pacific territories—Guam, American Samoa, and the NMI—are represented by Republicans in Congress.

King-Hinds, an attorney and former chair of the Commonwealth Ports Authority Board of Directors, campaigned on a platform emphasizing economic development, infrastructure improvement, and enhanced federal relations. Her election followed the retirement of long-serving Delegate Gregorio Sablan, who had held the position since its inception.

Summary:- The election process proceeded smoothly, with Propst conceding promptly and extending his congratulations to King-Hinds. The NMI's electorate demonstrated active participation, reflecting the community's engagement in shaping their representation at the federal level.

5) Puerto Rico:- In the November 5, 2024, gubernatorial election in Puerto Rico, Jennifer González-Colón of the pro-statehood New Progressive Party (PNP) was elected governor, securing approximately 39.44% of the vote. This victory marks the first time the PNP has achieved three consecutive gubernatorial terms.

González-Colón's main opponent, Juan Dalmau Ramírez of the Puerto Rican Independence Party (PIP), garnered about 32.66% of the vote, marking the first time since 1952 that a PIP candidate has finished second in a gubernatorial race. Jesús Manuel Ortiz of the Popular Democratic Party (PDP) received approximately 21.06%, resulting in the PDP's first third-place finish in its history.

The election also featured candidates from Project Dignity and an alliance between the Citizens' Victory Movement and the PIP, reflecting Puerto Rico's diverse political landscape. Despite the multiplicity of parties, González-Colón's victory underscores continued support for the PNP's pro-statehood platform.

Summary:- González-Colón's election is historically significant, as she becomes the second woman to hold Puerto Rico's governorship, following Sila María Calderón's tenure from 2001 to 2005. Her leadership is expected to focus on advancing the statehood agenda and addressing the island's ongoing economic and social challenges.

6) US Virgin Islands:- In the November 5, 2024, general elections, the U.S. Virgin Islands elected all 15 members of its Legislature, with notable outcomes in both the St. Croix and St. Thomas-St. John districts. In St. Croix, former Senator Kurt Vialet led the polls, marking his return to the Legislature. He was joined by newcomers Clifford Joseph and Hubert Frederick, who secured seats, while incumbents Diane Capehart and Samuel Carrion were unseated.

In the St. Thomas-St. John district, all six incumbents seeking re-election retained their seats, with Milton E. Potter receiving the highest number of votes. Avery Lewis, a former St. Thomas administrator, was the sole new senator elected in this district, filling the vacancy left by Donna Frett-Gregory's retirement.

The election also featured the at-large senatorial race, where incumbent Democrat Angel Bolques Jr. secured a third term by defeating independent candidate Lorelei Monsanto with 63% of the vote.

Summary:- Voter participation was significant, with a turnout exceeding 51%. Over 8,500 voters cast ballots during the early voting period, and an additional 613 utilized absentee ballots. The election process was conducted smoothly, reflecting the territory's commitment to democratic engagement.

7) Marutius:- On November 10, 2024, Mauritius held its general elections, resulting in a decisive victory for the opposition coalition, Alliance du Changement (ADC), led by Navin Ramgoolam. The ADC secured 60 out of 62 directly elected seats in the National Assembly, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape.

The incumbent Prime Minister, Pravind Jugnauth, conceded defeat as preliminary results indicated a substantial loss for his Militant Socialist Movement (MSM)-led coalition, Alliance Lepep, which garnered only 27.8% of the vote. Jugnauth's administration faced criticism over corruption allegations and economic challenges, factors that likely influenced the electorate's decision.

Navin Ramgoolam's return to the premiership marks his fourth term, having previously served from 1995 to 2000 and 2005 to 2014. At 77, Ramgoolam has announced plans to audit public finances to assess the previous administration's economic management, aiming to address issues such as the high cost of living and corruption.

Summary:- The election outcome underscores Mauritius's robust democratic processes and reflects the populace's demand for change. The ADC's overwhelming majority provides a strong mandate to implement its reform agenda, focusing on economic revitalization and governance improvements.

8) Somaliland:- On November 13, 2024, Somaliland conducted its fourth direct presidential election, resulting in a significant political shift. Opposition candidate Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, commonly known as "Irro," of the Waddani party, secured a decisive victory with 63.92% of the vote, while incumbent President Muse Bihi Abdi of the Kulmiye party received 34.81%. A third candidate, Faysal Ali Warabe of the UCID party, garnered 0.74% of the votes.

The election process was lauded for its transparency and peaceful conduct, reinforcing Somaliland's reputation as a stable democracy in the Horn of Africa. International observers commended the credible electoral process, which culminated in a peaceful transfer of power.

The Constitutional Court of Somaliland certified the results, affirming the election's integrity.

Abdullahi's campaign focused on democratic and economic reforms, aiming to address the region's development challenges, particularly those stemming from its lack of international recognition. His victory is seen as a mandate for change, with expectations for enhanced governance and efforts toward achieving global acknowledgment of Somaliland's sovereignty.

The outgoing administration, led by President Bihi, convened its final cabinet meeting following the election outcome, discussing key transition issues.

Summary:- The smooth electoral process and subsequent transition underscore Somaliland's commitment to democratic principles, setting a positive example in a region often marred by political instability.

9) Sri Lanka:- On November 10, 2024, Mauritius held its general elections, resulting in a decisive victory for the opposition coalition, Alliance du Changement (ADC), led by Navin Ramgoolam. The ADC secured 60 out of 62 directly elected seats in the National Assembly, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape.

The incumbent Prime Minister, Pravind Jugnauth, conceded defeat as preliminary results indicated a substantial loss for his Militant Socialist Movement (MSM)-led coalition, Alliance Lepep, which garnered only 27.8% of the vote. Jugnauth's administration faced criticism over corruption allegations and economic challenges, factors that likely influenced the electorate's decision.

Navin Ramgoolam's return to the premiership marks his fourth term, having previously served from 1995 to 2000 and 2005 to 2014. At 77, Ramgoolam has announced plans to audit public finances to assess the previous administration's economic management, aiming to address issues such as the high cost of living and corruption.

Summery:- The election outcome underscores Mauritius's robust democratic processes and reflects the populace's demand for change. The ADC's overwhelming majority provides a strong mandate to implement its reform agenda, focusing on economic revitalization and governance improvements.

10) Senegal:- On November 17, 2024, Senegal conducted early parliamentary elections following President Bassirou Diomaye Faye's dissolution of the National Assembly in September, a move aimed at securing a stronger mandate amid economic challenges and public demand for reform.

The elections resulted in a decisive victory for President Faye's party, PASTEF, which secured 130 out of 165 seats in the National Assembly. This substantial majority enables the administration to advance its ambitious reform agenda, focusing on anti-corruption measures, revitalizing the fishing industry, and ensuring equitable distribution of natural resource benefits.

The main opposition coalition, Takku Wallu Sénégal, led by former President Macky Sall, conceded defeat after obtaining 16 seats. Other parties, such as Jàmm ak Njariñ, secured 7 seats, reflecting a significant consolidation of power by PASTEF.

Summary:- International observers commended the electoral process for its transparency and peaceful conduct, highlighting the maturity of Senegalese democracy. The Constitutional Court confirmed the results, solidifying President Faye's mandate to implement his policy initiatives aimed at addressing the nation's pressing economic and social issues.

11) Namibia:- In November 2024, Namibia held its presidential election, resulting in the historic election of Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as the nation's first female president. Representing the ruling South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO), Nandi-Ndaitwah secured approximately 57% of the vote, while her main opponent, Panduleni Itula of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), received about 25%. This election marks a significant milestone in Namibia's political landscape, as Nandi-Ndaitwah becomes one of the few female heads of state in Africa.

The electoral process faced challenges, including logistical issues such as ballot paper shortages, which led to the extension of voting by three days. These complications prompted opposition parties to contest the results, citing procedural irregularities. Despite these concerns, independent observers affirmed the election's validity, noting that it adhered to international standards.

Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, brings extensive political experience to the presidency, having served as vice president, deputy prime minister, and foreign minister. Her campaign focused on addressing economic challenges, including high unemployment and poverty rates, despite Namibia's wealth in natural resources. She has pledged to implement radical shifts to tackle these issues, emphasizing land reform and equitable wealth distribution.

Summary:- The election outcome reflects a broader regional trend of long-standing ruling parties facing significant challenges due to economic hardships and public dissatisfaction. While SWAPO retained power, its reduced parliamentary majority indicates a demand for change among the electorate. Nandi-Ndaitwah's leadership is anticipated to bring a renewed focus on economic reforms and social equity, aiming to fulfill her commitments to the Namibian people.

12) Ireland:- On November 29, 2024, Ireland held its general election to elect the 34th Dáil Éireann, resulting in a fragmented political landscape. Fianna Fáil emerged as the largest party with 48 seats, followed by Sinn Féin with 39 seats, and Fine Gael securing 38 seats. The Labour Party and the Social Democrats each increased their representation to 11 seats, while the Green Party experienced a significant decline, retaining only one seat.

The election outcome necessitated coalition negotiations, as no single party achieved a majority in the 174-seat parliament. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael initiated discussions to continue their coalition, which has governed since 2020. However, their combined total of 86 seats fell short of the 88 required for a majority, prompting them to seek support from smaller parties or independent TDs.

Sinn Féin, led by Mary Lou McDonald, increased its seat count but faced challenges in forming a government due to the reluctance of other major parties to enter into a coalition with them. The party's platform for significant governmental change resonated with a substantial portion of the electorate, yet it lacked sufficient allies to establish a governing majority.

Summary:- The election underscored the evolving dynamics of Irish politics, with traditional parties like Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael experiencing declining support, while smaller parties and independents gained prominence. This shift reflects the electorate's desire for diverse representation and indicates potential challenges in forming stable governments in future electoral cycles

13) Iceland:- Social Democrats Gain and Incumbents are punished in Iceland Parliament elections, On November 30, 2024, Iceland held parliamentary elections that resulted in a significant shift in the nation's political landscape. The center-left Social Democratic Alliance, led by Kristrún Frostadóttir, emerged as the largest party, securing 15 seats in the 63-seat Althingi with approximately 20.8% of the vote. This outcome more than doubled their previous representation and marked their best performance in over a decade.

The conservative Independence Party, headed by incumbent Prime Minister Bjarni Benediktsson, experienced a decline, obtaining 14 seats with about 19.4% of the vote. This result represents one of the party's poorest showings in its history. Other notable outcomes include the centrist Liberal Reform Party securing 11 seats with 15.8% of the vote, and the People's Party gaining 10 seats with 13.8%.

Summary:- The election was precipitated by the collapse of the coalition government due to disagreements over immigration, energy policy, and economic issues. These challenges, coupled with a rising cost of living and housing shortages, influenced voter sentiment, leading to a high turnout of 80%. The Left-Green Movement and the Pirate Party failed to secure any seats, marking a significant departure from their previous parliamentary presence, with no party achieving an outright majority, coalition negotiations are essential to form a stable government. Frostadóttir Social Democratic Alliance is expected to lead these discussions, potentially partnering with parties like the Liberal Reform Party to establish a governing coalition. The election underscores Iceland's dynamic political environment and the electorate's demand for change in addressing pressing national issues.

14) United States of America: - Presidential Election The 2024 United States presidential election, held on November 5, resulted in former President Donald Trump securing a second non-consecutive term, defeating incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris. This marked a historic comeback, as Trump became the first individual since Grover Cleveland to serve two non-consecutive terms. The election was notable for its high voter turnout and the significant shifts in voter demographics across various states.

Trump's victory was bolstered by substantial gains in traditionally Democratic strongholds. Notably, New York and New Jersey experienced double-digit swings toward Trump, with an 11.5% shift in New York and a 10.1% shift in New Jersey compared to the 2020 election results. These shifts were attributed to Trump's appeal to working-class voters and his campaign's focus on economic issues and immigration control.

Summary:- The election also highlighted the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in appealing to a broad electorate. Analysts pointed to the party's emphasis on identity politics and the selection of candidates as factors that may have alienated certain voter groups. In contrast, the Republican Party's focus on competence and policy resonated with a wider audience, contributing to their success in this election cycle.

In the aftermath of the election, discussions have emerged regarding the future direction of American democracy. Trump's victory, characterized by a willingness to challenge established norms, has raised questions about the resilience of democratic institutions and the potential long-term impacts on governance and the rule of law. Observers are closely monitoring how these developments will shape the political landscape in the coming years.

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