Opposition leaders in Argentina demand an investigation into President Milei’s communications advisor Santiago Caputo for allegedly threatening lawmaker Facundo Manes in Congress. The incident, captured on video, has been interpreted as part of a strategy to intimidate opposition members. Manes emphasizes the importance of constitutional rights while calling for accountability against what he views as authoritarian tactics by the government.
Opposition leaders in Argentina are calling for an investigation into President Javier Milei’s top communications advisor, Santiago Caputo, following an alleged threat made towards lawmaker Facundo Manes in Congress. A video of the exchange surfaced, showing Caputo confronting Manes aggressively, though the audio of the confrontation was inaudible. Manes described the incident as part of a broader strategy to intimidate opposition figures.
In a detailed statement, Manes stated, “I am not the first to be kicked around. Nor will I be the last,” signaling that he believes such aggression from the administration is systematic. He emphasized the importance of defending democratic principles like the Constitution and warned against Milei’s administration’s increasingly authoritarian tactics.
The altercation occurred after Milei’s address to Congress, where tensions escalated between the president and Manes after the latter alleged that Milei’s actions were unconstitutional. Milei retaliated with insults, leading to a chaotic atmosphere in the chamber where Manes brandished the Constitution.
Post-speech reports indicated that Caputo confronted Manes in a corridor, reportedly stating, “Now you’re going to listen to me — I’ll turn the entire state [apparatus] against you,” and physically prodding him in the chest. An associate of the government is believed to have intervened to obstruct recording of the incident.
This confrontation adds to Caputo’s controversial reputation, especially after a prior incident where he was accused of attempting to control a media interview involving Milei. Manes also remarked on Caputo’s social media activities that ridicule the political situation, further highlighting tension between the officials.
The Democracia para Siempre political bloc, of which Manes is a member, condemned Caputo’s actions and is pushing for a formal investigation. Lawmakers from opposing parties criticized the libertarian government for its aggressive tactics, with some likening their approach to that of a sect. Opposition leaders are calling for accountability for the actions of Caputo and Milei’s administration.
Legal experts have denounced Caputo’s behavior as institutional bullying, with one calling for punitive measures. There is a concern that such aggression towards opposition members may embolden further intimidation tactics against dissenting voices in the government.
In summary, the confrontation involving Javier Milei’s advisor Santiago Caputo and opposition lawmaker Facundo Manes highlights escalating tensions in Argentina’s political landscape. The incident has sparked demands for an investigation, with opposition leaders accusing the government of using intimidation tactics against dissenters. Legal experts are voicing concern over the implications of such behavior for democracy and law in Argentina.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
