Protests erupted in Buenos Aires against low pensions, resulting in clashes with police, 124 arrests, and several injuries. President Javier Milei’s austerity measures have garnered ire, leading to condemnation from unions and local leaders. Economic distress now affects over 50% of the population, raising alarms over social stability.
On Wednesday in Buenos Aires, Argentina, demonstrators clashed violently with police during a protest against low pensions amidst stringent austerity measures imposed by President Javier Milei. Reports indicate that at least 124 individuals were arrested and 46 sustained injuries during the unrest. Police responded with tear gas and rubber bullets, while some protesters retaliated by throwing stones and igniting a police vehicle.
The Argentine Security Ministry reported that, among the injured, 26 members of the security forces required hospital treatment, including one serious gunshot wound case. Additionally, 20 demonstrators were also injured, with one in critical condition. A photographer on site suffered a severe injury from a tear gas canister. The demonstration attracted many members from the notorious “Barrabravas” and various left-wing groups and unions who raised their voices against government actions.
The CGT trade union issued a statement condemning the government’s “savage actions” against the protest, criticizing the police for using excessive force that resulted in injuries to innocent bystanders, including pensioners and media personnel. Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof described the repressive measures as “ferocious” and emphasized that it represents an attack on fundamental democratic rights.
Since Javier Milei’s inauguration in December 2023, his radical reforms have included significant layoffs of civil servants and cuts to social programs. While intended to curb inflation, these austerity measures have resulted in over 50% of the population now living below the poverty line in Argentina, raising concerns about the state of the economy and social stability.
The violent clashes in Buenos Aires highlight the growing unrest among Argentinians regarding severe austerity measures imposed by President Javier Milei, leading to protests primarily against low pensions. The response from law enforcement has drawn significant criticism from both trade unions and political leaders, bringing attention to serious questions about governmental authority and the safeguarding of democratic rights in Argentina. As economic struggles deepen, the impact of such reforms on the broader populace remains a pressing concern.
Original Source: www.newsbreak.com
