The Argentine government defended police actions during a protest supporting pensioners, asserting it was a destabilization attempt. Minister Patricia Bullrich characterized the events as serious, citing the use of weapons by some protesters. Over one hundred were arrested, while a photojournalist was seriously injured, prompting demonstrations from media professionals and calls for accountability.
The Argentine government has defended its response during a recent protest supporting pensioners, asserting that the demonstration aimed to destabilize the government. This protest, which included soccer fans and unions, was held outside Congress to advocate for pension updates, leading to police intervention resulting in over a hundred arrests and around fifty injuries.
Minister of National Security, Patricia Bullrich, labeled the situation surrounding the parliament as of “extreme gravity.” She alleged that some demonstrators possessed weapons and claimed that the police were called to disperse those instigating violence, deeming the police’s actions as appropriate.
Bullrich announced plans for joint criminal complaints against the detained individuals for sedition and resisting authority, while identifying Leandro Caprioti as the lead organizer of the protest. She accused opposition mayors of enabling violent actions during the demonstration, suggesting a coordinated effort to undermine the government.
Bullrich asserted that the protests stemmed from organized groups intending to destabilize President Javier Milei’s administration and predicted further attempts at protests in the future. Additionally, the government criticized a judge for releasing protesters, citing the infringement of constitutional rights as part of the justification for the actions taken during the protest.
One notable casualty was photographer Pablo Grillo, who sustained serious injuries from a gas canister. In response, Argentine photojournalists organized a demonstration, holding cameras aloft in solidarity and condemning police actions. Bullrich expressed regret for Grillo’s injuries but maintained that the use of force was justified under the circumstances.
The Argentine government’s defense of police repression during protests highlights ongoing tensions between authorities and demonstrators advocating for pension rights. The situation escalated into violence, resulting in numerous injuries and arrests. The government’s narrative frames the protests as attempts to destabilize the administration, indicating a significant response to dissent. Furthermore, the injury of a photographer has sparked backlash against security policies, reflecting the complex dynamics between state authority and civil rights.
Original Source: efe.com
