Political Turmoil in Argentina: Brawl Erupts in Parliament Amid Protests Against Austerity
On March 12, a brawl erupted in the Argentine parliament over a cryptocurrency scandal amid widespread protests against President Javier Milei’s austerity measures. The confrontation led to the session’s suspension, while demonstrations demanding better pensions escalated into clashes with police, resulting in injuries and arrests.
On March 12, Argentina experienced significant political turmoil as political representatives clashed within the parliament amid public protests against President Javier Milei’s austerity measures. An altercation erupted between representatives Oscar Zago and Lisandro Almirón, resulting in a physical fight that ultimately led to the suspension of the parliamentary session. The session was originally intended to address a referral to investigate a cryptocurrency scandal involving President Milei.
The altercation highlighted deep tensions as the political faction Kirchnerism attempted to advance impeachment proceedings against the president, although they lacked sufficient support. During the heated session, an emergency declaration concerning Bahía Blanca was unanimously approved, which escalated discussions on the Impeachment Commission. The environment became further charged when the ruling party obstructed the investigation into the cryptocurrency scandal, inciting anger among opposition factions.
As the chaos in parliament unfolded, some members of the Libertarians, PRO, and Radicals vacated their seats in protest. Lisandro Almirón attempted to confront Oscar Zago, who was a necessary vote during the session, leading to physical confrontations. This turmoil ultimately resulted in the adjournment of the parliamentary session.
Concurrently, hundreds of retirees, along with football fans and supporters, protested against President Milei’s austerity policies outside the parliament. Protesters clashed with police, resulting in at least 20 injuries and 124 detentions, as the riot police utilized water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets to disperse crowds gathering near Congress and Plaza de Mayo. Demonstrators highlighted their struggle for better pensions amid severe budget cuts that have left many living in poverty, with approximately 60 percent of retirees receiving a minimum pension of $340 per month.
The events of March 12 revealed the intense political strife in Argentina, with physical confrontations among parliamentarians mirroring public outrage over austerity measures imposed by President Javier Milei. While parliamentary discussions on impeachment continue to create divisions, widespread protests reflect growing discontent among retirees coping with inadequate pensions. The protests and subsequent police action underline the seriousness of the social crisis facing Argentina.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
