Key political developments in Argentina included the Supreme Court’s rejection of Ariel Lijo’s leave request, President Javier Milei’s critical state-of-the-nation address focusing on economic achievements, and Facundo Manes’s legal action against Santiago Caputo. Other highlights included significant power outages affecting millions, Shakira’s concerts, and the inauguration of an interactive art exhibition by María Eugenia Llorente.
The Supreme Court recently dismissed federal judge Ariel Lijo’s request for leave, surprising the government. Lijo’s colleague, Manuel García-Mansilla, unexpectedly supported this decision, which was seen as an unexpected setback for the administration that had pushed for both judges’ appointments. Under pressure to resign, Lijo’s continued nomination depends on achieving a two-thirds Senate majority.
In a state-of-the-nation address before a sparsely populated Congress, President Javier Milei signaled a focus on midterm campaigns and confirmed his intentions to submit an agreement with the IMF for approval. He criticized Buenos Aires Province Governor Axel Kicillof and introduced strict immigration laws, while largely emphasizing his administration’s economic successes, only briefly referencing the Cryptogate scandal.
Facundo Manes, a Radical deputy, filed a criminal lawsuit against presidential advisor Santiago Caputo, alleging threats after the state-of-the-nation speech. Manes expressed concern for his safety and family, citing Caputo’s influence within government institutions. Following a provocative incident during the speech, tensions escalated, culminating in an alleged physical confrontation with Caputo’s escort.
City Mayor Jorge Macri appointed former police chief Horacio Giménez as Security Minister, replacing Waldo Wolff amid public criticism over security failures. Macri emphasized the need for law enforcement experience in this role while restructuring other ministerial positions. The former Security Minister has been tasked with campaign duties for upcoming midterms.
Over two million residents faced power outages due to failures in Edesur’s transmission lines, coinciding with a record heatwave that triggered traffic signal malfunctions and disrupted subway services. The outages exacerbated existing issues, prompting concerns over forthcoming weather alerts linked to intense rainfall expected in the following days.
Despite governmental austerity measures, Communication Secretary Manuel Adorni’s office remains staffed with 208 employees, including several influencers. This revelation coincides with a significant number of public sector layoffs during Javier Milei’s administration, with fears of continued dismissals affecting the Human Capital Ministry voiced by labor unions.
Additionally, plans are being considered by the Milei administration to control media access, including possibly having journalists elected by voters. The spokesperson’s remarks about a potential “mute” button for persistent reporters raised eyebrows, drawing parallels to past media restriction efforts in other countries. The administration’s approach suggests a move towards more direct communication with citizens via social media.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude to Javier Milei for Argentina’s recent abstention in a UN vote concerning Russian troop withdrawal from Ukraine. This development marks a strategic shift away from Argentina’s previous support for Ukraine. The vote highlighted geopolitical alignments, notably with comparisons to the stance of the United States under Trump.
Colombian singer Shakira recently captivated audiences during her concerts in Argentina, her first in six years. The artist, known for her deep connections to the country, received a warm welcome at the airport and performed sold-out shows as part of her world tour.
Artist María Eugenia Llorente is set to open her interactive exhibition, “DESATAR” (“Untying”), at the British Arts Centre. With a diverse background combining technology and art, Llorente transitioned from a successful corporate career to pursue her artistic ambitions, culminating in this exhibition, which emphasizes creative exploration and interactive design.
This week’s highlights reflect significant political maneuvers, societal challenges, and cultural events within Argentina. From judicial disputes and government reshuffling to power outages and artistic undertakings, these narratives encapsulate the current landscape. The developments indicate a government under scrutiny while navigating economic pressures and public safety concerns, alongside notable cultural contributions from figures like Shakira and emerging artists like María Eugenia Llorente.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
