Argentine President Milei Faces Accusations of Hypocrisy Over Pay Raise Scandal

Salary Increase Amid Austerity Measures

Argentine President Javier Milei is facing mounting criticism over a scandal involving a significant pay raise for himself and top government officials. The scandal comes amidst an austerity package the administration is pushing through, causing critics to accuse Milei of hypocrisy.

Details of the Pay Raise

Details shared on social media by opposition lawmakers revealed that Milei’s gross monthly salary increased to just over 6 million Argentinian pesos last month, equivalent to approximately $7,073 at Argentina’s official exchange rate. This reflects a 48% increase from January.

Milei’s Response

In a televised interview, Milei acknowledged the controversy and ordered the dismissal of Labor Secretary Omar Yasin. He referred to the salary increase as “an error that should not have been made.”

The Defense

Defending the pay increase, Milei claimed it was automatically triggered by a decree signed by former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner 14 years ago. However, opposition lawmakers countered this claim, asserting that the president’s signature was on a February decree enabling the pay increase.

Economic Crisis in Argentina

The scandal follows a significant setback to Milei’s economic reform bill. Despite the setback, the president reaffirmed his determination to continue with controversial austerity measures. Milei’s proposed “shock therapy” is seen as the only solution to Argentina’s deep economic crisis, characterized by an annual inflation rate exceeding 250% and two in five citizens living in poverty.

Criticism of Double Standards

Victoria Tolosa Paz, an Argentine lawmaker, accused Milei of hypocrisy. She criticized the president for advocating austerity while benefiting from a substantial pay increase.