Violent Clashes Erupt During Retiree Protests in Buenos Aires
Protests organized by retirees in Argentina turned violent, leading to clashes with police in Buenos Aires. Demonstrators, including soccer fans, demanded higher pensions and better living conditions. Excessive police force was reported, raising concerns over the treatment of protesters.
On Wednesday in Buenos Aires, Argentina, a protest organized primarily by retirees escalated into violence involving security forces. Demonstrators included elderly individuals, women, young adults, alliances from various unions, and soccer fans who turned out to support the retirees’ cause for better pensions and living standards. The police reacted with tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons, resulting in significant clashes.
The retirees have consistently protested in front of the National Congress on Wednesday afternoons. They were joined by fans from renowned soccer clubs such as Boca Juniors and River Plate, who carried banners proclaiming solidarity with the retirees and demanding justice for their cause. On this particular day, emotions ran high as police enforced a heavy security presence comprising approximately 800 officers to maintain order.
Tensions heightened around 5:30 p.m. when demonstrators and police clashed. Officers fired rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse groups of protesters, who responded by throwing sticks and cans. The situation intensified as videos surfaced depicting police using excessive force against demonstrators, including an incident where an elderly woman sustained a serious head injury while being aided by others.
Prior to the protest, Security Minister Patricia Bullrich advised the mobilization of armed forces to uphold public order during the demonstration. She stated, “Our forces are deployed to enforce the protocol. Traffic is not blocked, and hooligans will stay on the sidewalk.” This indication of preparedness highlighted the government’s attempt to preemptively manage the protest scenario, particularly given its potential scope and involvement of various groups.
The protests in Buenos Aires underline the ongoing struggles faced by retirees seeking enhanced pensions and living conditions, further exacerbated by their alliance with soccer fans and unions. The government’s strong response illustrates the sensitivity surrounding public demonstrations, particularly in times of economic hardship, raising concerns about the treatment of protesters, especially the elderly. Overall, this incident reflects deep-rooted socio-economic tensions in Argentina.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
