Argentine Deputies' Controversial Visit to Convicted Repressors
A group of deputies from Argentina's ruling party, La Libertad Avanza, recently visited several repressors convicted of crimes against humanity during the country's last dictatorship (1976-1983). The visit took place at the Ezeiza prison in Buenos Aires province, sparking widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and political parties.
The delegation included deputies Beltrán Benedit, Lourdes Arrieta, Alida Ferreyra, Guillermo Montenegro, María Fernanda Araujo, and Rocío Bonacci. Among the convicted individuals they met was Alfredo Astiz, a former Navy officer sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in crimes committed at the Mechanics School of the Navy (ESMA). Astiz was involved in the kidnapping and disappearance of several notable figures, including the founder of the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo, Azucena Villaflor, and her companions.
Public and Political Backlash
The visit has been met with severe backlash. Human rights organizations like Sons and Daughters for Identity and Justice against Forgetfulness and Silence (Hijos) have demanded measures against the deputies, arguing that their actions are contrary to democratic consensus. Senator Eduardo 'Wado' de Pedro, himself a son of missing people, criticized the ruling party, accusing the government of sympathizing with genocidaires and advocating for house arrest benefits for convicted criminals.
Opposition parties have also voiced their disapproval. The Radical Civic Union and the ARI Civic Coalition condemned the visit, emphasizing that it is an affront to the victims and the democratic values upheld by Argentina for the past 40 years. Maximiliano Ferraro, president of the ARI Civic Coalition, called for the Chamber of Deputies to address the actions of the visiting deputies.
Internal Disputes Within La Libertad Avanza
The visit has also caused internal strife within La Libertad Avanza. Some deputies claimed the visit was part of an effort to assess the conditions of prisoners over 70 years old, while others defended it as an act of humanitarian concern. Beltrán Benedit, one of the visiting deputies, argued that they went to see former combatants who fought against Marxist subversion under a constitutional government.
However, not all members of La Libertad Avanza are in agreement. Some described the visit as inappropriate and criticized the explanations provided by their colleagues. The controversy has led to calls for internal accountability and transparency within the party.
The incident has reignited discussions about Argentina's dark history and the importance of upholding justice for crimes against humanity. As the debate continues, the actions of these deputies will likely remain a contentious issue in the country's political landscape.
