Estela Díaz admitted that the allegations had been circulating since 2019, but the state only took action in 2024
Compartir:
The arrest of leaders of the La Capitana Citizens' Movement brought to light a web of complaints of sexual abuse that had been dragging on since at least 2014 and that, for years, did not receive an effective response from the Buenos Aires provincial state and its Kirchnerist administration.
The case, led by prosecutor Betina Lacki, began as an isolated file and resulted in the investigation of an alleged systematic abuse scheme with sect-like traits. In parallel, a network of omissions and negligence was exposed that allowed the accused to gain political visibility, hold positions in the provincial Legislature and participate in official events despite the existence of complaints and judicial measures against them.
La ministra de Axel Kicillof admitió conocer los abusos mucho antes de la denuncia.
The Minister of Women and Diversity of the province of Buenos Aires, Estela Díaz, acknowledged that the accusations against the couple "circulated as a rumor" since her inauguration in 2019. However, the Ministry only took formal action in October 2024. During that period, the State did not activate preventive mechanisms or provide institutional support, which allowed the suspects to continue occupying positions of power.
One of the most sensitive points in the file is the role of Melina Gaudino, identified as a key piece in guaranteeing the group's impunity. According to the investigation, Gaudino falsely presented herself as a lawyer, simulated non-existent judicial proceedings, and convinced the victims that their cases were moving forward. Despite not having a qualifying degree, she managed to hold positions in the Ministry of Security during Sergio Berni's administration, in the Municipality of La Plata and at UTN, and she used supposed connections with the Judiciary to discourage complaints.
Although Estela Díaz denied an organic relationship with La Capitana, there are public records of the group at the inauguration of a grassroots unit in Ringuelet in 2025. In addition, the accused shared events and demonstrations with local Peronist leaders, in events of high political visibility.
Los abusadores Nicolás Rodríguez y Daniela Silva Muñoz.
The group also presented itself under the "sponsorship" of Giselle Fernández, sister of Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, a connection that allegedly was used to legitimize its insertion into the political structure of La Plata.
The prosecutor's office has now requested the consolidation of all the files in order to address the case as a systematic abuse scheme. The investigation is moving forward in two directions: the direct criminal responsibility of the accused and the administrative complicity that allowed the scheme to be sustained for more than a decade under the passive gaze of the Buenos Aires provincial state.
