Right and Left-Wing Populism: A Betrayal of Latin American Nations

By Rodolfo Varela

I am a man of the left, and I feel ashamed to see how many parties that once represented the hope of social justice have become corrupt, prioritizing their own interests over the well-being of the people. The same happens with right-wing sectors, which follow the same pattern of manipulation and cheap populism.

Los países de América Latina

Both sides use words like "democracy," "rule of law," and "sovereignty" to stir patriotic emotions, while hiding internal crises, corruption, and the lack of real proposals.

The Hypocrisy of Anti-U.S. Rhetoric

Some governments mobilize their people against the United States, blaming Washington for all internal problems while depending heavily on its technology, investments, and trade. If the U.S. were to “close the tap,” many Latin American economies would collapse, proving that nationalist rhetoric is merely a tool to maintain power and distract from domestic incompetence.

The Responsibility of the Supreme Judicial Power

The supreme judicial power must ensure the proper application of justice and the full observance of the Constitution, not act as a political force. Since it is not a power granted by popular vote, it must remain strictly within its constitutional role. When it goes beyond these limits, it risks becoming a judicial coup, undermining democratic balance.

How to Expose the Deception

• Compare words and actions – Do these leaders’ and judges’ actions truly align with their speeches?

• Question vagueness – If no clear proposals are offered, manipulation is likely at play.

• Demand transparency – Without public debate and accountability, there is no real democracy.

Conclusion

True left-wing politics —just like true democratic right-wing politics— should work for the people, not against them. And the judiciary must safeguard justice and the Constitution, not govern from the shadows. Until honesty and accountability return to the entire political and judicial structure of Latin America, our nations will remain trapped in a cycle of poverty, dependency, and deception.