Alleged sale of candidacies by right-wing Argentine candidate Milei: Investigation launched

An Argentine prosecutor has initiated a preliminary investigation into potential irregularities surrounding the upcoming primary elections on August 13.

The probe follows numerous complaints against right-wing candidate Javier Milei, accusing him of selling candidacies within his party.

The investigation, led by the representative of the Public Prosecutor’s Office with electoral competence, aims to ensure transparency in party actions during the electoral process.

As part of the inquiry, businessman Juan Carlos Blumberg, a former member of Milei’s party, La Libertad Avanza, has been summoned to testify.

Blumberg accused Milei of turning politics into a business and claimed that the party charged up to US$50,000 for appearing on electoral lists, specifically implicating Milei’s confidant, Carlos Kikuchi.

Milei responded to the allegations on social media, stating that those who join his party are welcome to contribute financially.

However, further accusations have emerged. The prosecutor will also call lawyer Carlos Maslatón, Buenos Aires legislator Rebeca Fleitas from La Libertad Avanza, and former party member Mila Zurbriggen to testify.

Zurbriggen, former president of the youth group Generación Libertaria, reported receiving threats after denouncing the party for engaging in candidacy negotiations involving financing and alleged selection of candidates based on sexual favors.

Political parties are required to submit campaign expense reports at the end of the electoral process.

The prosecutor’s investigation aims to determine if there is evidence of electoral crimes or violations of political party financing laws.

The primary elections, known as the Primary, Open, Simultaneous, and Mandatory (PASO) elections, will determine the candidates eligible to participate in the general elections scheduled for October 22.

If no candidate receives over 45% of the affirmative votes or at least 40% with a difference of more than 10 points, a runoff will be held on November 12.