New Legislation in Argentina
A significant development has taken place in Argentina, as President Javier Milei has recently signed the ‘clean record’ bill into law. This legislation aims to prevent individuals with certain criminal convictions from participating in the electoral process.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The bill outlines specific crimes that would render an individual ineligible to run in future presidential elections. These crimes include fraud against the Public Administration, bribery, influence peddling, embezzlement of public funds, and illicit enrichment, among others.
For the legislation to apply, the conviction must have been confirmed in the second instance and occurred before December 31 of the year prior to the electoral process. Furthermore, the commission of at least one of the established crimes must have been reaffirmed in the first instance ruling.
Consequences of Ineligibility
Individuals deemed ineligible under this legislation would be barred from holding various high-ranking positions, including chief of staff of ministers, minister, secretary, undersecretary, and other authorities of decentralized entities and organizations. They would also be excluded from collegiate bodies, the diplomatic corps, and positions on the boards of directors of state-owned companies or entities.
Implications for Former President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner
The signing of this bill has significant implications for former President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, who was sentenced to six years in prison and perpetual disqualification in 2022. Her conviction was ratified in November 2024, leaving her with limited options for appeal. As a result, she would be excluded from running in future presidential elections under this new legislation.