Clashes Erupt in Buenos Aires Over Pension Cuts: Protesters and Police Collide

In Buenos Aires, clashes erupted between police and protesters, predominantly retirees and football fans, over pension cuts by President Javier Milei. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets, resulting in injuries and arrests. The unrest reflects widespread dissatisfaction with austerity measures affecting the elderly, as pensioners face inadequate support amid rising inflation.

In Buenos Aires, a violent clash erupted between police and protesters, primarily comprised of retirees and football fans, in response to pension cuts mandated by President Javier Milei’s economic policies. On Wednesday, the police deployed tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons to suppress demonstrators, causing at least 15 injuries and more than 100 arrests. Authorities confirmed that among the injured were both a police officer and a protester, highlighting the escalating tensions surrounding the government’s austerity measures.

Retirees have regularly demonstrated against pension reductions since President Milei’s inauguration in late 2023. Their grievances were amplified when they united with football fans, stirred by a viral video showcasing an elderly man in a football jersey being assaulted by police. This collective anger resonated strongly with attendees, many of whom were demanding better access to medicine and fairer pension disbursements, as reported during the protest.

The situation intensified when Argentina’s Ministry of Security implemented a resolution banning individuals involved in disturbances from attending soccer stadiums. Protesters voiced their frustration by shouting, “Milei, garbage, you are the dictatorship!” while drawing parallels between his governance and Argentina’s past military rule from 1976 to 1983. The protests turned violent near Congress and Plaza de Mayo as demonstrators clashed with a substantial police presence.

Among the most significant injuries, photojournalist Pablo Grillo was seen being struck by a projectile, raising concerns about his well-being. The aggressive policing methods also faced criticism following incidents of officers attacking vulnerable individuals, further exacerbating public outrage. In the background of these protests, emotions were heightened by the commencement of a trial concerning medical negligence linked to the death of football legend Diego Maradona in 2020.

This year has seen severe austerity measures that have disproportionately impacted pensioners, with many receiving inadequate monthly pensions, equivalent to approximately $340. Notably, President Milei previously vetoed a proposal to increase pensions, which failed to keep pace with inflation, highlighting a growing crisis in the nation’s economic landscape.

In conclusion, the clashes in Buenos Aires reflect significant discontent regarding austerity policies, particularly those affecting the elderly population through pension cuts. The unrest stems from a combination of economic hardship, perceived governmental neglect, and increasing tensions between citizens and law enforcement amid deepening social issues. The intersection of economic pain, protests, and historical political comparisons amplifies a volatile atmosphere in Argentina.

The events in Argentina underscore deep societal divisions linked to economic policies under President Milei, particularly how austerity measures negatively impact the elderly. The violent protests, characterized by significant unrest and public outrage, demonstrate a unified demand for better protection of pension rights and social welfare. Overall, the confrontations highlight a critical juncture in Argentine society where economic hardship and historical grievances converge, suggesting potential for further unrest if changes are not addressed.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com