President Javier Milei is set to give a primetime address to Congress, amid rising scrutiny over his administration’s actions. The government has imposed unprecedented restrictions on media coverage, limiting photographer access during sessions. These measures have drawn criticism from press associations and raised concerns regarding freedom of expression and transparency in governance.
President Javier Milei has announced plans to deliver a primetime address to Congress, set to be broadcasted nationally through a Cadena Nacional from 8:45 PM to 11 PM on a Saturday night. This speech will be his third since taking office, coming at a crucial time for his administration amid controversy over economic policies and key judicial appointments.
Milei’s previous speeches focused on ambitious reforms and challenged Congress to back his policies under the ‘Pacto de Mayo,’ criticizing the political establishment as a “political caste.” This year’s address follows his aggressive outline for reforms, demanding a new social contract for Argentina.
Amid this, the Milei government has initiated unprecedented restrictions on press coverage of congressional sessions since Argentina’s return to democracy in 1983. National and international photographers will be barred from the chamber, with media access severely limited to a smaller, less advantageous location.
This decision was reportedly instigated by Milei’s Chief-of-Staff, Karina Milei, and confirmed by legislative authorities without opposition. The previous press area will now host government guests, effectively allowing the administration to control the imagery coming from the session.
Milei has a history of limiting media access to government events, including closed-door appointments for his Cabinet. Previous budget presentations also saw journalists relocated to inadequate spaces, revealing a trend of media suppression.
The President is known for his critical stance against unfriendly media, raising alarms among local press associations regarding democratic discourse. The press watchdog ADEPA highlighted concerns about Milei’s increasing hostility toward journalists and warned about potential threats to freedom of expression.
ADEPA urged the government to foster constructive dialogue, advocating for the protection of press freedoms amidst alarming legislative changes that modify access to public information, potentially veering towards secrecy.
President Milei’s upcoming primetime address marks a significant moment for his administration under scrutiny for controversial policies. The government’s restrictive measures on media coverage during congressional sessions raise serious concerns about transparency and freedom of expression. Local press associations and watchdogs have criticized these actions, calling for a return to democratic norms and greater protections for journalism in Argentina.
Original Source: batimes.com.ar
