Protests against low pensions in Argentina led to violent clashes in Buenos Aires, resulting in 124 arrests and numerous injuries. The police response included tear gas and rubber bullets, which provoked further violence from demonstrators. Trade unions condemned the government’s actions amidst ongoing economic challenges following austerity measures.
On Wednesday, significant clashes occurred in Buenos Aires during a demonstration against low pensions, ignited by austerity measures imposed by President Javier Milei. The protests resulted in at least 124 arrests and caused injuries to 46 individuals. Police employed tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd, which retaliated by throwing stones and setting a police vehicle ablaze, according to La Nación.
The Argentine Security Ministry reported a total of 124 individuals arrested, alongside 26 law enforcement members injured, including one who sustained a gunshot wound and required surgical intervention. Additionally, local reports indicated severe injuries to demonstrators, notably a photographer who was critically injured after being struck by a tear gas canister.
The protests featured numerous supporters from various leftist factions and trade unions, including football ultras known as “Barrabravas,” who have connections to organized crime. In a statement, the trade union CGT condemned what they termed the “savage actions” of the Milei administration, which utilized excessive force against participants.
Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof vocally opposed the government’s response, characterizing the actions as “ferocious, illegal, and premeditated.” He denounced the violence against citizens protesting pension cuts and emphasized the damaging effects of the government’s austerity measures on democratic rights.
Since assuming office in December 2023, President Milei has enacted radical reforms, resulting in substantial cuts to social programs and mass layoffs of civil servants. While these austerity measures have curtailed inflation, they have exacerbated economic distress, leaving over half the Argentine population below the poverty line.
In summary, the violent confrontations in Buenos Aires highlight the escalating tensions surrounding pension reforms and austerity measures imposed by President Javier Milei. The protests, marked by police brutality and significant injuries, have drawn widespread condemnation from trade unions and local officials, underscoring the deep societal divisions and challenges faced by the Argentine populace amid ongoing economic turmoil.
Original Source: www.newsbreak.com
