In a sudden turn of events, Vice President Victoria Villarruel has been entrusted with the responsibility of leading Argentina’s Executive Branch while President Javier Milei embarks on a journey to Washington for Donald Trump’s inauguration and to Davos for a World Economic Forum (WEF) convention. Amidst controversies surrounding the Senate’s session and the expulsion of Eduardo Kueider, the transition of power to Villarruel has sparked debates among political purists.
To address any uncertainties regarding the transfer of powers, Presidential Spokesman Manuel Adorni emphasized that Villarruel would soon receive official notification of her duties as the acting head of the National Executive Branch. Meanwhile, Milei’s itinerary includes key meetings with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and Coca Cola’s CEO James Quincey, underscoring the significance of his international engagements.
As Villarruel steps into this interim role, her plans to oversee relief efforts in the province of Chubut have been put on hold due to Milei’s trip. However, her personal connection to the area, having spent part of her childhood in Epuyén, fuels her dedication to stay informed about the ongoing wildfires. Mayor José Contreras of Epuyén describes the situation as a “total disaster” and expresses concerns about the weather forecasts in the region.
Before departing, Milei introduced the “Clean Record” bill aimed at preventing anyone with a criminal record from running for elective office. This move is perceived as a direct challenge to former President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner (CFK), whose eligibility could be impacted by the new legislation. With the possibility of CFK’s candidacy hanging in the balance pending a Supreme Court decision, Defense Minister Luis Petri played a significant role in drafting the bill.
As the political landscape in Argentina undergoes these shifts and confrontations, the nation braces itself for potential changes in leadership dynamics and electoral regulations. Villarruel’s temporary stewardship of the Executive Branch and Milei’s international engagements underscore the complexities and uncertainties of the country’s political realm. The unfolding events and decisions made in this period are sure to shape Argentina’s future trajectory and governance structures significantly.
