Key highlights from March 1-7 include the Supreme Court denying Lijo’s leave, President Milei’s state-of-the-nation speech targeting economic and immigration policies, a lawsuit by Facundo Manes against advisor Caputo, significant staff changes in the city administration, and widespread power outages. Additionally, Argentina’s diplomatic stance shifted with an abstention from a UN vote on Ukraine, while cultural events saw the return of Shakira and opening of Llorente’s art exhibit.
The Supreme Court recently denied federal judge Ariel Lijo’s leave request, surprising the government. This decision came despite his fellow-nominee Manuel García-Mansilla’s dissent, which emphasized respect for judicial independence while increasing pressure on Lijo to resign. The government intends to press for Lijo’s nomination, highlighting the need for a two-thirds Senate majority for his confirmation.
President Javier Milei delivered a state-of-the-nation address to a sparsely attended Congress, coinciding with midterm campaigning. He intends to submit the upcoming agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for legislative approval, criticized Buenos Aires Province Governor Axel Kicillof, and announced stricter immigration laws. His speech primarily focused on economic achievements and minimally referenced the Cryptogate scandal.
Radical deputy Facundo Manes filed a criminal lawsuit against presidential advisor Santiago Caputo for threats made during a confrontation after the state-of-the-nation speech. Manes claimed the threats were premeditated and alarming given Caputo’s influential role. The incident escalated when Manes displayed the Argentine Constitution, provoking an aggressive response from Caputo and potentially causing harm to Manes and his family.
City Mayor Jorge Macri appointed former police chief Horacio Giménez as the new Security Minister, replacing Waldo Wolff amid criticism over recent police station breakouts. Macri emphasized the need for a police background and expanded government personnel changes. This led to tense exchanges online with former President Mauricio Macri regarding custody protocols for remanded individuals, signaling broader disagreements within the administration.
Power outages impacting over two million residents in Buenos Aires coincided with extreme heat, attributed to two Edesur transmission line failures. The disruptions severely affected transportation and municipal operations. Furthermore, a heightened alert was issued due to anticipated rainfall following a prolonged heatwave, indicating a potential disaster response scenario across affected regions.
In light of the government’s austerity efforts, it was reported that Communication and Media Secretary Manuel Adorni oversees a staff of 208, including several libertarian influencers. Concurrently, approximately 41,142 public employees have been dismissed since Milei’s administration began, sparking concerns of further layoffs as unions raise alarms about upcoming job cuts across various ministries.
The administration is contemplating changes in press access, potentially allowing voters to select which journalists can cover President Milei’s events. Presidential spokesman Manuel Adorni acknowledged this idea, likening it to past U.S. media access restrictions under President Trump. Similarities have been drawn to Milei’s approach to media, emphasizing direct communication through social media while eliminating traditional press conferences.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude towards President Milei for Argentina’s abstention in a recent UN vote regarding Russian troop withdrawal from Ukraine. This marked a significant shift in Argentina’s diplomatic stance, moving away from support for Ukraine. The abstention aligns with BRICS nations, with Argentina changing course in alignment with Russia’s international position.
Colombian singer Shakira is set to perform at the Campo Argentino de Polo, marking her return to Argentina after six years. The sold-out concerts are part of her ‘Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran’ world tour, showcasing her continued popularity and demand.
An interactive art exhibition titled DESATAR by María Eugenia Llorente will open at the British Arts Centre on March 14. Llorente, a former computer science professional, transitioned to an artistic career inspired by her architectural aspirations. Her self-taught journey began while living abroad, culminating in her return to Argentina where she continues to develop her artistic expression.
In summary, this week has seen significant political developments, including the Supreme Court’s decision regarding judge Lijo, President Milei’s state-of-the-nation address emphasizing economic issues, and rising tensions within the government. Social and infrastructure challenges, such as power outages and heightened security concerns, also emerged. Finally, cultural events featuring prominent figures like Shakira and María Eugenia Llorente highlighted the vibrant ongoing artistic landscape in Argentina.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
