The measure was adopted by the Presidency of the Nation in light of the celebrations planned for the participation of the Argentine National Team in the World Cup. The tributes will be safeguarded in the Casa Rosada and then returned to their original location
The Presidency of the Nation announced that it has temporarily removed the stones placed in Plaza de Mayo in tribute to the victims of the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision was made as a preventive measure ahead of the celebrations planned for Argentina's participation in the World Cup, which could turn that space into a gathering point for thousands of people.
As explained by the Government in an official statement, the stones were moved for safekeeping inside the Casa Rosada to prevent them from being damaged during the festivities. The measure was coordinated with the Government of the City of Buenos Aires and was carried out following recommendations from security forces, who warned about the possibility of a large crowd in Plaza de Mayo.
Argentine soldiers removing the stones from the square
From the Presidency, it was noted that contact was also established with the families of the honored victims to inform them in advance about the temporary removal of the stones and to explain the reasons for the decision. According to the statement, the relocation is exclusively preventive and does not imply the permanent removal of the memorial.
The Executive assured that once the celebrations related to Argentina's participation are concluded, all the stones will be returned to the same place where they were before the operation. The Government indicated that the goal is to preserve the integrity of the tribute and to avoid losses or damages that could occur as a result of a massive gathering of people.
The stones began to be placed in Plaza de Mayo during the pandemic as part of a tribute initiated by family members and loved ones of those who died from COVID-19. Each one bears the name of a victim and has gradually become a permanent memorial located in front of the Casa Rosada.
Kirchnerists vandalizing the tribute to the victims of COVID-19
The relocation operation was carried out with the participation of personnel from the Presidency and the city government. Authorities reiterated that the stones will remain safeguarded only for the duration of the celebrations and will be reinstalled in their original location afterward.
The decision was officially communicated before the celebrations planned in downtown Buenos Aires, where a significant presence of supporters is expected to accompany the Argentina team following their participation in the international tournament.
