A long-serving populist right-wing leader has acknowledged defeat in a national election framed as a decisive vote on the country’s direction, calling it "clear" that his party has failed to secure victory. The result marks a potential turning point for the party after a decade and a half in power, with implications for the political landscape. Analysts will now assess whether the outcome signals a broader shift in public sentiment or simply a temporary setback. The leader’s concession sets the stage for a possible transition in leadership and policy priorities.
The populist right-wing leader of 12 years says it is "clear" his party has lost the vote billed as a referendum on the country's future.