79 - La presidencia de Alfonsín (1983 - 1989) Política (2/2) (Canal Encuentro)

Crisis in Argentina: The Alfonsín Government

Economic and Political Turmoil (1987)

• In 1987, the Alfonsín government faces a new crisis as the Austral Plan shows signs of failure, leading to rising inflation and unrest among Peronist unions and business sectors.

• Tensions escalate within the military sector following the trial of military juntas, despite the enactment of the Full Stop Law aimed at limiting further prosecutions related to past repression.

Military Rebellion and Public Response

• On April 15, 1987, a rebellion led by Lieutenant Colonel with 200 army officers occurs at Campo de Mayo, demanding the dismissal of the army chief and amnesty for involved officers.

• The public response is significant; hundreds of thousands gather in Plaza de Mayo to reject this uprising. Opposition politicians and union leaders align with the government against military insurrection.

Human Rights Discourse

• President Alfonsín addresses human rights issues but acknowledges limitations in resolving them effectively. He refers to some rebels as misguided heroes from the Malvinas War who have caused national turmoil.

• Following their surrender, these individuals are promised justice under law. However, two months later, legislation is passed that grants immunity to those who committed crimes under orders during dictatorship.

Decline of Alfonsín's Administration

• The Easter crisis marks a political decline for Alfonsín; his economic failures and negotiations with military weaken public trust. Consequently, Peronism gains strength in upcoming elections.

• By January 1988, Aldo Rico leads another armed uprising followed by Lieutenant Colonel Mohamed Ali Seineldin amidst growing civil discontent.

Escalating Violence and Economic Collapse (1989)

• On January 23, 1989, militants from "Todos por la Patria" storm an infantry regiment in Buenos Aires resulting in casualties on both sides—11 security personnel and 28 militants die.

• As economic conditions worsen—with plummeting Austral currency and soaring inflation—a severe drought exacerbates energy crises leading to power cuts throughout summer.

Political Shift Towards Peronism

• Amidst chaos, Carlos Menem campaigns across Argentina promising substantial salary increases. On May 14, he wins presidential elections with nearly half of votes against Radical candidates.

• Following this victory just two days later, social unrest erupts into widespread looting across supermarkets as June approaches amid deteriorating political-economic conditions.