President Milei Vows Jail for Protest Instigators Amid Clashes in Argentina

President Javier Milei has pledged to imprison individuals provoking violence in protests after clashes during a pensioners’ demonstration. His government is facing criticism over police actions, with significant injury reports and internal party tensions arising from the handling of the situation. Milei has also canceled a planned European trip in light of recent events.

President Javier Milei has announced that individuals inciting violence during protests will face imprisonment, following a recent demonstration by pensioners that resulted in significant unrest. The protest, supported by football fans, ended in violence, leading to 124 arrests and 45 injuries. Milei emphasized his support for law enforcement and denounced those who vandalize and threaten public safety.

During remarks at the Expoagro agricultural event, President Milei stated, “The good ones are the ones in blue [the police] and the sons of bitches who go around with rags on their faces and break cars, burn cars and threaten people.” He reaffirmed his commitment to uphold the republic and endorsed National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich.

Minister Bullrich has faced substantial criticism from the opposition regarding the security forces’ actions at the protest, which resulted in serious injuries to individuals, including photographer Pablo Grillo. Bullrich controversially labeled Grillo as a “Kirchnerite militant,” raising concerns about her remarks in light of his condition following police measures during the protest.

The protest was a response to ongoing pension demands, drawing support from diverse groups, including fans from over 30 football clubs. Initially sparked by an incident involving a Chacarita Juniors supporter, the demonstration faced heavy police opposition using rubber bullets and tear gas, although most participants remained peaceful.

In the aftermath, Bullrich’s ministry filed charges of sedition and assault against the detained demonstrators and contended that a judge’s decision to release 114 of them was misguided. The judge, Karina Andrade, defended her actions by citing insufficient documentation for the arrests, indicating that inquiries into these individuals would continue despite their release.

Bullrich alleged that the protest included factions intent on destabilizing the government, framing the incident as an attempted coup despite the protesters’ lack of intent to overthrow the administration. Some members of Milei’s party expressed concerns regarding the handling of the event, including Vice-President Victoria Villarruel, who called for recognition of the violence faced by both protesters and law enforcement.

President Milei has decided to cancel a planned trip to Europe, initially set for later this month, opting instead to visit Israel on March 28. The Fundación Club de los Viernes, which was to honor him in Spain, announced Milei’s decision to postpone the European segment of his trip, amidst assertions that he has faced a recent attempt at a coup.

In summary, President Javier Milei’s recent statements underscore his administration’s stance against those inciting violence during protests. The government faces backlash over police actions during a pensioners’ demonstration that resulted in numerous injuries and arrests. Internal tensions within Milei’s party and the decision to cancel his European trip reflect the ongoing challenges in balancing public safety, political dissent, and the administration’s image. The events highlight the politically charged atmosphere in Argentina as the government navigates these complex issues.

Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar