Inigo Urkullu vs Tuilaepa Sailele

Urkullu was elected as the seventh Lehendakari (President) of the Basque Autonomous Community, representing the Basque Nationalist Party (PNV). His election marked a continuation of moderate Basque nationalism and a focus on economic recovery and self-government within Spain.

Urkullu was re-elected as Lehendakari after the PNV won the Basque parliamentary elections. His second term focused on consolidating economic growth, expanding social policies, and negotiating a new fiscal pact with the Spanish government.

Urkullu's government successfully negotiated a new Economic Agreement (Concierto Econ

Urkullu led the Basque government's response to the final dissolution of the armed group ETA. He promoted a policy of reconciliation and support for victims, while navigating the political implications of the end of decades of conflict in the Basque Country.

Urkullu secured a third term as Lehendakari after the PNV won the 2020 Basque elections. His leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and continued advocacy for Basque self-government were central to his re-election.

Tuilaepa Sailele was elected as Prime Minister of Samoa, beginning his tenure as the longest-serving head of government in the country's history. He succeeded Tofilau Eti Alesana and led the Human Rights Protection Party.

Tuilaepa's government implemented a change from driving on the right to driving on the left, aligning with neighboring Australia and New Zealand. The switch aimed to reduce import costs for vehicles and improve road safety, though it caused initial disruption.

Tuilaepa won a fifth consecutive term as Prime Minister, extending his record as the longest-serving leader in Samoa. His party, HRPP, secured a majority in the general election, continuing his dominance in Samoan politics.

Tuilaepa declared a state of emergency in response to a severe measles epidemic that killed over 80 people, mostly children. The government mandated vaccinations and closed schools, but the outbreak highlighted gaps in healthcare infrastructure.

Tuilaepa's HRPP lost the general election to the FAST party led by Fiame Naomi Mataafa. The result led to a constitutional crisis and legal battles, but Tuilaepa eventually conceded, ending his 22-year tenure as Prime Minister.