After police violence at a pensioners’ protest in Argentina left a photographer in critical condition, calls for the security minister’s resignation have intensified. The protest, involving over 1,000 riot police, stemmed from demands for increased pensions amid severe austerity measures. The actions have drawn condemnation from various political figures, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by retirees.
In Argentina, the hardline security minister faces mounting pressure to resign following a severe police reaction to a pensioner demonstration, leaving a freelance photographer in critical condition and many others injured. The protest, which included over a thousand riot police utilizing tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons, centered around pensioners’ demands for increased pensions and the restoration of free medications amid President Javier Milei’s austerity measures.
Every week, retirees gather outside Congress to voice their concerns, and recently, their numbers surged with the support of football fans from prominent clubs such as Boca Juniors and River Plate. They carried signs pleading for help and expressed their fears concerning government actions, showcasing their determination to advocate for their rights.
Despite the peaceful intent of many retirees, violence erupted as riot police aggressively confronted demonstrators, employing tear gas and water cannons, which led to chaotic scenes. Graphic footage depicted police brutality, including an elderly woman being struck with a baton and a man attacked while in a football shirt.
One of the most severe injuries occurred when photographer Pablo Grillo sustained critical injuries from a tear gas canister, resulting in emergency surgery and an induced coma. His father attributed the violence to President Milei and Minister Bullrich, who dismissed Grillo as merely an activist.
The Argentinian Graphic Reporters Association (aRGra) has called for Bullrich’s resignation, condemning the actions of the security forces and requiring accountability from the government. While demonstrators voiced their grievances peacefully, some resorted to violent actions, leading to the arrest of over 100 individuals. Opposition figures like Axel Kicillof criticized the government’s heavy-handed tactics during the protest.
Retirees have suffered greatly under Milei’s government, with pension decreases and cuts to essential free medications, impacting nearly 60% of them who receive the minimum pension. Many, like 73-year-old Liliana Morono, are struggling to afford basic living necessities and express their frustration with the current administration.
The violent police response to a pensioner protest in Argentina has sparked significant outrage and demands for accountability from officials. The injury of photographer Pablo Grillo highlights the extreme measures used against peaceful demonstrators advocating for crucial pension reforms. As the elderly community bears the brunt of austerity measures, the political climate remains tense, with calls for change and greater support for vulnerable populations reverberating across the nation.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
