In Argentina, pensioners protesting austerity measures were joined by football fans, leading to violent clashes with police. The unrest began peacefully in Buenos Aires but escalated with the arrival of Boca Juniors supporters. Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse demonstrators, resulting in numerous injuries and arrests. The protests reflect significant discontent with government policies that have slashed pensions amid rising inflation.
In Argentina, a violent protest erupted as pensioners, unhappy with President Javier Milei’s austerity measures, were joined by local football fans. These individuals have been demonstrating weekly, but on Wednesday, clashes with police intensified in Buenos Aires, resulting in significant unrest. Cars were set ablaze, and rocks were hurled at the government building, highlighting the tension surrounding economic policies.
The protest began peacefully until supporters of Boca Juniors joined, chanting slogans and rallying in support of retirees. Even fans from River Plate, typically rivals, united for the cause. As police tried to contain the crowd to prevent them from reaching Congress, they utilized water cannons to disperse the protesters, pushing back the elderly participants.
Amid chaos, demonstrators resisted police efforts, loudly declaring, “Don’t touch the elderly.” One protester highlighted their plight by carrying a sign urging solidarity among generations, emphasizing the interconnected struggles of pensioners and future retirees. Reports indicate nearly 90 arrests and multiple injuries, including that of a police officer and a protester struck by a tear-gas canister.
These weekly protests by retirees have targeted the government’s austerity actions, which have resulted in reduced pensions amidst rising inflation. The government, led by Milei, aims to cut spending, which has led to significant frustrations among the elder population. Historical context shows that previous protests also resulted in injuries among elderly participants.
In response to the unrest, Security Minister Patricia Bullrich warned local football fan groups to maintain order, indicating the government’s intent to manage the escalating tensions. The growing collaboration between pensioners and football supporters reflects wider discontent with economic conditions in Argentina, raising concerns about social stability.
The protests in Argentina illustrate the growing unrest among pensioners affected by austerity measures implemented by President Javier Milei’s administration. The convergence of football fans with retirees highlights a unified discontent against economic policies that have led to reduced pensions and social instability. This unrest, marked by violent clashes with authorities, underscores the challenges the government faces in maintaining order amidst widespread dissatisfaction.
Original Source: news.sky.com
