Euphoria in Puerto Rico as mass protests force Governor to resign
People danced on the streets of San Juan’s old city as Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rossello announced he would quit over offensive chat messages that sparked massive protests on the bankrupt island.
After 12 days of sometimes violent demonstrations, the first-term Governor said he would step down on August 2, having failed to soothe critics’ concerns by vowing not to seek re-election and giving up the leadership of his political party.
“I feel that to continue in this position would make it difficult for the success that I have achieved to endure,” Rosselló said, listing accomplishments ranging from creating new industries to promoting equal pay for women during his time in office.
Packed with protesters awaiting the announcement, San Juan’s historic Old City erupted in joy when news broke that Rosselló, whose administration has been dogged by allegations of corruption, was stepping down.
The blocks directly outside the Governor’s mansion were filled with thousands of writhing, dancing, mostly-young Puerto Ricans. They waved flags and lit fireworks, as chants of “Fight yes, Surrender No,” and “Olay Olay” rang out.
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR READERS