Kicillof ordered posters with his photo and that of Pope Leo XIV to be put up to promote his presidential candidacy

The governor of the province of Buenos Aires, Axel Kicillof, is at the center of a new controversy due to the appearance of posters featuring his photo alongside that of Pope Leo XIV in various locations in Luján.

The deplorable posters, which carry the slogan "Kicillof president" and the message "Welcome the Peronist Lion", promote the presidential candidacy of the Kirchnerist leader amid the anticipation of the Supreme Pontiff's visit.

The signage appeared around the Basilica of Luján and in other areas of the city, precisely in the lead-up to the Pope's arrival in the province of Buenos Aires and the historic mass scheduled at that location.

The appearance of the posters generated strong criticism from opposition leaders and social media users, who labeled the initiative as opportunistic. The use of the pastoral visit and a historic religious event to conduct political campaigning and position Kicillof for 2027 is a completely deplorable act.

There were also strong criticisms directed at the governor's circle and Peronism for their attempt to exploit the religious gathering to promote the presidential slogan and engage in dirty campaigning.

The visit of Pope Leo XIV to Luján

The historic visit of Pope Leo XIV to the city of Luján will take place on Tuesday, November 10, and Wednesday, November 11, 2026. This trip will mark a very special milestone, as it represents the first visit of a Supreme Pontiff to this Marian sanctuary since the historic arrival of John Paul II in 1982.

The main event will consist of a massive mass in front of the Basilica of Luján. Prior to this, Leo XIV will take a tour in the popemobile along Avenida Nuestra Señora de Luján, from the access roundabout to Plaza Belgrano.

Finally, on Wednesday morning, the central celebration of the Holy Mass presided over by the Holy Father will take place.