Argentine police confronted football fans and pensioners protesting austerity measures in Buenos Aires, resulting in injuries and arrests. The violent demonstrations reflected growing discontent towards President Javier Milei’s policies, with pensioners suffering significant economic setbacks. Support from football fans marked a notable escalation in these weekly protests, aligning with Argentina’s broader social unrest.
On Wednesday in Buenos Aires, Argentine police faced violent confrontations with football fans and anti-austerity demonstrators during a weekly protest by pensioners. Authorities reported that riot police deployed tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons to disperse the stone-throwing crowd, resulting in at least 20 injuries and over 100 arrests, amidst a growing backlash against President Javier Milei’s austere budget measures.
Many protesters, who donned football jerseys, expressed their anger by chanting “Milei, garbage, you are the dictatorship!” drawing parallels between his governance and the oppressive military junta of 1976-1983. The clashes unfolded near the Congress building and the iconic Plaza de Mayo, culminating in serious injuries, including that of photojournalist Pablo Grillo, whose father attributed the incident to the government’s actions.
The demonstrators rallied in solidarity with pensioners, many waving national flags and images of Argentina’s legendary football player Diego Maradona. Riot police, equipped with motorcycles, struggled for over two hours to clear the central avenue as protesters retaliated by throwing projectiles and igniting fires. Notably, a video capturing a police officer assaulting an elderly woman drew significant attention on social media.
This protest aligns with a long-standing series of demonstrations held every Wednesday by pensioners, which have escalated this week due to the support from football fans from clubs like River Plate and Boca Juniors. Following the violent events, city residents expressed their dissatisfaction with Milei by banging pots and pans and blocking streets.
Tensions have soared in Argentina, especially with the commencement of a trial linked to the alleged negligence leading to Maradona’s death in 2020. The public sentiment was amplified by Maradona’s past remarks urging a defense of retiree rights. Voices of protest echoed the urgency of unity in confronting current injustices, as pensioners, experiencing severe economic challenges under Milei’s regime, continue to advocate for their rights without adequate support.
The recent clashes in Buenos Aires underscore escalating tensions in Argentina as pensioners and football fans alike protested against the government’s austerity measures. The violence reflects a deep-rooted discontent with the economic hardships faced by retirees, exacerbated by policies under President Javier Milei. This protest, noted for its intensity and community solidarity, reveals the growing urgency for change amidst ongoing struggles for economic justice.
Original Source: www.kpvi.com
