Recent protests in Buenos Aires led to clashes between football fans and retirees opposing pension cuts, resulting in injuries and arrests. Riot police utilized tear gas and rubber bullets to control angered demonstrators. With widespread discontent over economic policies under President Javier Milei, the situation has intensified amid ongoing austerity measures significantly impacting retirees.
In Argentina, clashes occurred between football fans and retirees protesting against pension cuts, resulting in at least 15 injuries and more than 100 arrests in Buenos Aires. Riot police responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons to disperse the demonstrators, who protested against President Javier Milei’s economic policies, including cuts affecting pensions for retirees.
The injured included a police officer and a protester struck in the head by a tear gas canister, highlighting the severity of the clashes. Weekly protests by retirees intensified when they united with football fans, driven by growing discontent over economic challenges since Milei’s administration began.
Daniel Schweimler from Al Jazeera reported the protests were sparked by a viral video depicting police violence against an elderly football fan. Pensioners expressed their frustrations, with one retiree, Jose, articulating their challenges in accessing medicine and coping with diminished pensions.
Fans also reacted to a recently announced ban from the Ministry of Security preventing those accused of disruptive behavior from entering soccer stadiums. Protesters vocalized their opposition to Milei’s government, with slogans likening his leadership to Argentina’s oppressive military regime from 1976-1983.
A serious injury was reported involving photojournalist Pablo Grillo, who was injured while documenting the events. His father accused Milei’s government of incompetency as emotions ran high amid ongoing trials related to the late football icon Diego Maradona’s death in 2020.
During the protests, demonstrators, many waving national flags and images of Maradona, faced significant police presence. Riot police engaged in protracted efforts to clear protesters who resorted to throwing stones and setting fire to objects. Graphic videos circulated online showing police brutality, including the violent treatment of an elderly woman amidst the turmoil.
The trial of Maradona’s medical team has further fueled public emotion, adding to the unrest. With ongoing austerity measures, pensioners are disproportionately affected, receiving minimal financial support, while attempts to increase pensions have been unsuccessful due to government vetoes.
In 2023, pension increases have not kept pace with inflation, leaving nearly 60% of retirees surviving on the minimum pension of approximately $340 monthly.
In conclusion, the recent clashes in Buenos Aires reflect growing tensions in Argentina due to drastic pension cuts implemented by the government of President Javier Milei. The protests have revealed deep frustrations among retirees and football fans alike, compounded by ongoing austerity measures and rising economic challenges facing the population. Public sentiment is resonating with the urgent need for change amid allegations of governmental neglect and mismanagement, especially concerning the welfare of vulnerable populations such as retirees, who are currently suffering the most significant financial hardships.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
