Santilli Addresses “Triple Hug” with Milei, Adorni’s Departure to Face Justice

Chief of Staff Diego Santilli has shed light on the unusual “triple hug” that occurred during his swearing-in ceremony, involving President Javier Milei and outgoing official Manuel Adorni. Santilli stated that the gesture was President Milei’s way of bidding farewell to a loyal companion and clarified that Adorni will now face his legal challenges independently.

Milei’s Farewell Gesture

Speaking to LN+ in an interview, Santilli described the embrace, which saw him, Milei, and Adorni in a close huddle, as “the greeting of a president to an official who accompanied him from the beginning.” He explained that Milei was extending a farewell to Adorni, a figure who had been with him since the inception of his political journey. Adorni, who is currently involved in legal proceedings concerning alleged illicit enrichment, was given a prominent position during the ceremony at the Casa Rosada, standing beside Santilli and Milei as the oath was taken.

Adorni’s Legal Defense

Santilli emphasized that Adorni is stepping down from his position and will “go to defend himself in court without any privileges or immunity.” This statement comes in the context of Adorni’s ongoing legal situation, where he is accused of illicit enrichment. Santilli further commented on Adorni’s decision to resign from his seat on the YPF board, a position that will now be filled by Santilli himself. “He is giving up his seat on the board of YPF and will now go to defend himself in court without any privileges or immunity,” Santilli reiterated.

A Departure from Precedent

The Chief of Staff also noted the uniqueness of the situation, suggesting that such a public display of support for an outgoing official facing legal scrutiny might be unprecedented in previous administrations. “It didn’t happen in another government,” he remarked. Santilli’s comments aimed to downplay the significance of the physical embrace, redirecting attention to Adorni’s impending legal defense and his cooperation with the judicial process.

Key facts

This development is significant for readers following Argentine politics, as it provides insight into the dynamics within President Milei’s administration and the handling of officials facing legal challenges. Santilli’s remarks offer a glimpse into the internal messaging and political maneuvering surrounding Adorni’s departure and his future legal proceedings.

Source: Clarin Deportes, https://www.clarin.com/politica/santilli-hablo-abrazo-triple-milei-dijo-adorni-va-ir-defender-justicia-fueros-privilegio_0_fdTcnRpPBT.html