Jorge Macri Responds to Patricia Bullrich’s Remarks on Clearing Protests

Buenos Aires Mayor Jorge Macri has responded to a remark by Senator Patricia Bullrich concerning the clearing of street protests in the city, opting to de-escalate any perceived political tension by focusing on shared achievements. Bullrich had previously suggested that the success in clearing the Avenida 9 de Julio of protesters was a result of the national government’s policies and her own previous tenure as Minister of Security.

A Collaborative Approach

During a recent interview, Macri expressed his satisfaction that the discussion has shifted to successes rather than failures. He stated, “First, I celebrate that we are discussing a success. Before, we were discussing a failure.” He directly addressed the issue of responsibility for protests, noting that whether it was the national or city government’s previous inability to clear them, “that has changed.” He added, “Is it the merit of both? Welcome.”

Macri highlighted the joint efforts between the city administration and the national government in eliminating the frequent protests that had, in 2023, reached an estimated 8,000 instances. He affirmed that both administrations will continue to work “side by side.”

“I am not concerned about sharing joint achievements if they are in favor of the people,” Macri stated. “If security, if the freedom to move around is the merit of a National Government that has the decision and a City Government that has the decision, welcome. What is the problem?” he insisted.

The Senator’s Jab

Bullrich’s comment, which Macri described as a “chicana” (jab or taunt), stemmed from signage displayed by the Buenos Aires government. These signs featured a before-and-after comparison of the Avenida 9 de Julio, showing it with protesters initially and then clear with vehicles. The accompanying text read, “the city without protests, with Law and Order.”

Patricia Bullrich had posted an image of one of these signs on her social media account, accompanied by the caption, “Thank you for the recognition.” She further elaborated, “That Avenue was constantly blocked until we implemented the Anti-Protest Protocol and cut off the ‘business’ of the poverty managers. Decision from day one of the President.” She also added, with a touch of irony, “That Law and Order sounds familiar, I’ll look it up in my old tweets.”

Shared Successes Beyond Protests

In line with his conciliatory stance towards the Minister of Security, Macri also commented on the agreement reached with the national government regarding the payment of coparticipation debt from the past year. “We managed to place the debt at the lowest historical level for the City of Buenos Aires,” he noted. “A success for the ministers, but also a success for the nation because it surely helps the country become more stable.”

He reiterated the importance of joint management with the national government, stating, “I have no problem saying ‘we achieved this jointly,’ even if we don’t agree or are not the same political force.” Macri concluded by emphasizing the positive impact of an improved working relationship with the national government, stating, “That there is a better working climate with the National Government is good for me, because it is good for the people of Buenos Aires.”

Datos clave

This development is significant for FootballGames10 readers as it touches upon the operational stability and public order within Buenos Aires, a major South American city that often hosts international sporting events and is a hub for football fan activity. Demonstrations can impact transportation and public access, and the resolution of such issues contributes to a more predictable environment for fans and teams.

Fuente: Clarin Deportes, https://www.clarin.com/politica/jorge-macri-tono-chicana-patricia-bullrich-preocupa-compartir-logros-conjuntos_0_ovjcQyp7k7.html