Week of March 7 to 14: Storms, Protests, and Political Turmoil in Argentina
A severe storm in Bahía Blanca led to widespread destruction, prompting a governmental response. Violent protests outside Congress highlighted political tensions, particularly surrounding impeachment talks regarding President Javier Milei. Customs controversies arose over suitcases linked to a political figure, while the economy faces inflation challenges and upcoming negotiations with the IMF. Freedom of press concerns and high-profile trials also marked the week.
From March 7 to 14, significant events unfolded in Argentina, beginning with a catastrophic storm in Bahía Blanca that resulted in near 300 millimeters of rainfall. This disaster has left approximately 20 individuals dead or missing and rendered hundreds homeless. In response, the national and provincial governments declared three days of mourning, while local officials called for recovery assistance, estimating reconstruction costs to be around 400 billion pesos. Donations poured in for the victims, and Pope Francis expressed his condolences from the Vatican.
Amid the crisis, protests erupted outside Congress, involving violent clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement, leading to over 150 arrests. Notably, the confrontations involved football hooligans, Kirchnerite militants, and even disputes among members of Congress related to ongoing political tensions, including a push to impeach President Javier Milei regarding a cryptocurrency scandal known as ‘Cryptogate.’
Deputy Maximiliano Ferraro has called for clarity regarding potential customs violations involving Laura Belén Arreta, who allegedly traveled with numerous suitcases without proper inspection. In response, the government defended the routine checks conducted on her private flight from Miami. Meanwhile, President Milei signed a decree aimed at establishing a new Extended Fund Facility with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to stabilize the economy and facilitate access to international credit markets, amid ongoing inflation concerns.
Inflation in the city recorded a monthly rate of 2.1 percent, contributing to an annual rate of 79.4 percent, largely driven by rising housing costs and food prices. As concerns regarding freedom of the press continue, the Association of Foreign Correspondents in Argentina criticized the Milei administration for its lack of transparency and communication with the media. Additionally, the budget of Argentina’s intelligence agency was expanded significantly through a recent decree.
The trial regarding Diego Maradona’s death commenced, highlighting allegations of negligence against health professionals involved in his care. Furthermore, the government’s commemorative actions for International Women’s Day were met with criticism, promoting messages that opposed previous gender policies and sparking demonstrations by feminist groups.
In summary, from March 7 to 14, a series of critical events took place in Argentina, featuring a devastating storm, turmoil in Congress, demand for clarity on customs issues, and significant developments related to international financial agreements. Alongside these challenges, pressing concerns over inflation and freedom of the press underscored the tumultuous political environment.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
