Argentina Supreme Court Upholds Kirchner Six-Year Sentence, Lifelong Office Ban

Argentina's Supreme Court upheld former President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner's conviction for fraudulent administration, confirming her six-year prison sentence and a lifetime ban from holding public office. This ruling effectively ends her chances of running in the upcoming September legislative elections, where she had announced her candidacy, potentially denying her immunity or delaying her arrest. At 72, Kirchner is expected to serve her sentence under house arrest due to her age and the nonviolent nature of the offense. The verdict stems from the 'Vialidad' case, involving irregularities in public works contracts awarded during her presidency from 2007 to 2015. The decision has intensified political tensions in Argentina, with supporters protesting in Buenos Aires and President Javier Milei, a libertarian and her political adversary, calling the ruling 'justice.' While the ruling weakens Kirchner's direct political influence, analysts suggest her movement will persist, though it faces challenges in finding new leadership ahead of crucial midterm elections.