Martín Menem: 'I vouch for Karina Milei and Lule'

Martín Menem, president of the Chamber of Deputies,  addressed for the first time the case of the audio recordings attributed to the former head of the Disability Agency, Diego Spagnuolo. In those recordings, released by a digital media outlet, Karina Milei and Eduardo "Lule" Menem are mentioned in a  supposed illegal fundraising scheme.

"This is a monumental operation two weeks before the elections," Menem stated in a conversation with Antonio Laje on A24. He added:  "I can't confirm the authenticity of the recordings, but I can say that the content is false. I vouch for Karina Milei and for Lule."

The reaction of the ruling party

The government decided to immediately remove Spagnuolo from his position and left the matter in the hands of the judiciary. For Martín Menem, that decision reflects a difference in style compared to other administrations:  "An official is removed and, if explanations must be given, they will be given in court. Unlike other groups, we don't question judicial actions."

The phrase "I vouch for them" was repeated several times during the interview and set the tone for the defense of the head of the Chamber of Deputies toward his closest collaborators.

Maneuvers in an electoral climate

Menem linked the appearance of the recordings to the electoral context:"When management can't be criticized, attempts are made to discredit with operations." In that sense, he interpreted the accusations as part of an attempt to undermine the libertarian government at a key moment.

Political support with an institutional message

Although the leader from La Rioja expressed personal confidence in Karina Milei and Eduardo Menem, he also sought to highlight the institutional attitude of the Executive Branch in the face of the crisis:  the immediate removal of the questioned official and the decision to let the judiciary determine responsibilities.

This way,  Martín Menem sought to convey two messages: political support for the main leaders of the administration and, at the same time, respect for the institutional framework that governs the investigation of possible irregularities.