Argentina: Spontaneous demonstrations after “State of Siege” announcements

Over 20.000 protesters Wednesday night met spontaneously at the gates of the House of Government in Buenos Aires, immediately after President De la Rua broadcasted a speech asking for calm among the population and announcing the State of Siege within all the national territory for 30 days. Demonstrators blame De la Rua and Minister of Treasury, Domingo Cavallo of being responsible for the economic recession affecting the country.

Domingo Cavallo, resigned by 1.00 am local time and urgent meetings were held in President residence to evaluate a probable full cabinet withdrawal. Besides, after President speech, opposition spokesmen threatened with a National Legislative Assembly, which could ask for the removal of De la Rua, if the Government do not show signals of change in the economics. The situation remained uncertain in Buenos Aires, as well as in the main cities of Argentina; riots and barricades went ahead even after the “State of Siege” order.

The pacific protest followed a day dominated by a general civil commotion on Wednesday, which included riots, looting and demonstrations. At the end of the day, seven people were killed, 150 injured and more than 300 arrested. By Thursday morning, the city of Buenos Aires showed normal activity in the streets and everybody is awaiting for extraordinary political announcements expected in no time.

Hernan Etchaleco PRAVDA.Ru Argentina with reference to Reuters, DyN, Infosic