'I came here to awaken lions': Meet new Argentine President, also known as the 'Chainsaw Man'

53-year-old led a boisterous campaign, much like former US President Donald Trump, gaining popularity among youth frustrated by an unstable economy

Trends Desk

Published: Tue 21 Nov 2023, 2:04 PM

Javier Milei, a far-right leader and a former television pundit, has been elected the president of Argentina. In an extraordinary turn of events, Milei, who until two years ago was seen as nothing but a talking head for his unbridled outbursts on TV, has created history.

The 53-year-old led a boisterous campaign, much like former US President Donald Trump, gaining popularity among the younger generation frustrated by an unstable economy.

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As the South American country looks at its new future with Milei, here's another reason why the world is talking about him — his nickname. Among his supporters, Milei is also popular as the "chainsaw man", a name that has piqued curiosity. It was his distinctive campaign that made him who he is.

His rallies looked like carnivals as people turned up in never-seen-before costumes. Not just that, Milei's supporters also carried chainsaws, symbolising their leader's dedication to "cutting through" red-tapism and government bureaucracy.

Milei also said that the tool was a reflection of his commitment to shredding unnecessary spending, according to a report in The Guardian. He likes to refer to himself as "the king of the jungle", according to a report in Euro News, and the right-wing populist galvanised support among the younger and older generations alike.

Behind the aggressive election campaign of the "chainsaw man", who defeated the centre-left finance minister Sergio Massa, was the motto: “I did not come to guide lambs, I came to awaken lions.”

After more than 99 per cent of votes counted, the TV celeb-turned-politician secured 55.69 per cent of the votes, The Guardian reported.

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