Calls for Argentina’s Security Minister to Resign Amid Protest Violence
Argentina’s security minister is facing intense pressure to resign due to violent police actions against pensioners protesting austerity measures. A photographer now in critical condition triggered widespread outrage, resulting in calls for accountability from both the public and journalists’ groups. The state’s handling of the protest reveals significant discontent among retirees suffering under new economic policies.
In Argentina, calls for the resignation of security minister Patricia Bullrich have intensified following a violent police response to a pensioners’ protest. The demonstration, aimed at demanding pension increases and essential medication restoration amid austerity measures led by President Javier Milei, resulted in a photographer suffering critical injuries and numerous protestors getting hurt.
On Wednesday night, over 1,000 riot police dispersed demonstrators using teargas, rubber bullets, and water cannons. The protest gained momentum as supporters from major football clubs like Boca Juniors and River Plate joined retirees, with many displaying banners pleading for compassion. However, the session escalated when riot police advanced, creating a chaotic situation that forced many to flee.
Incidents during the demonstration included an elderly woman being struck with a baton and a freelance photographer significantly injured by a teargas canister, leading to emergency surgery and his current induced coma. The Argentinian Graphic Reporters Association has expressed profound concern, demanding Bullrich’s resignation. They condemned the violent actions of security forces and called for accountability from President Milei, linking him directly to the incident’s fallout.
While various individuals protested peacefully, some engaged in acts of violence, throwing stones and setting a police van ablaze. Reports indicated potential injuries exceeding 500, and over 100 detentions occurred amid accusations by Bullrich that organized football fans had ulterior motives. Axel Kicillof, the opposition governor, condemned the government’s actions as cruel and premeditated, calling for immediate intervention to halt such brutality.
Under Milei’s administration, pension issues have worsened, with many retirees receiving minimal financial support, forcing many to struggle for basic necessities. Liliana Morono, a 73-year-old protestor, articulated the despair felt by retirees in the new economic climate imposed by the government.
In response, Manuel Adorni, the presidential spokesperson, portrayed the demonstration as politically motivated, while Bullrich emphasized the importance of law over violence. The situation underscores growing tensions between vulnerable populations and the current administration’s austerity measures.
The violent police response to the pensioners’ protest in Argentina has raised significant concerns regarding governmental accountability and the treatment of vulnerable populations. With calls for the resignation of Minister Bullrich and accusations against President Milei, the events have highlighted the plight of retirees struggling under harsh economic policies. The situation reflects broader societal tensions and the urgent need for dialogue regarding pension reforms.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
