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The Argentine Justice system prosecuted former president Alberto Fernández (2019-2023) on Thursday for alleged acts of corruption during his administration, in a case that involves officials from his close circle.
The judge Sebastián Casanello accused him of the crime of incompatible negotiations with the exercise of public function, along with 33 other people. The measure includes a seizure of 14.634 billion pesos, equivalent to about 11.6 million dollars.
According to the ruling cited by EFE, the maneuver allegedly benefited the insurance broker Héctor Martínez Sosa, husband of María Cantero, who was then Fernández's private secretary. Both were charged, along with the former president of Nación Seguros, Alberto Pagliano. The case revolves around decree 831, signed by Fernández in December 2021, which required public entities to purchase insurance policies from Nación Seguros, part of the state-owned Banco Nación.
The complaint was filed by lawyer Silvina Martínez and the prosecution charged Fernández in February 2024. The investigation claims that the hiring generated millions in commissions through intermediaries close to the then-president.
The defense attorney Mariana Barbitta confirmed the indictment and indicated that they would file an appeal before next Tuesday. She described the ruling as an "arbitrary, unfounded decision". Fernández had been questioned by the judge and denied having committed any crime, according to a report by RFI.
The judge noted that Fernández was involved in the "business expansion plan" of Martínez Sosa's group with the State. Part of the evidence emerged from the mobile phone of the former presidential secretary, a device that also gave rise to a second criminal case against the former president, this time for gender violence.
In February 2025, federal judge Julián Ercolini charged Fernández with minor and serious injuries, coercive threats, and psychological violence against his ex-partner Fabiola Yáñez, with whom he had a child in 2022. The case is based on the testimonies of Yáñez and a dozen witnesses, as well as evidence extracted from the same device.
As a precautionary measure, a freeze of 10 million pesos was imposed, a restraining order to remain at least 500 meters away, and the prohibition of contact was confirmed, although the restriction preventing him from leaving the country was lifted.
Frequently asked questions about the corruption proceedings against Alberto Fernández
Why was Alberto Fernández prosecuted for corruption?
Alberto Fernández has been charged with alleged acts of corruption related to incompatible negotiations with the exercise of public office. The case involves the obligation to contract policies with Nación Seguros, which would have financially benefited intermediaries close to the former president.
What precautionary measure was imposed on Alberto Fernández?
A embargo of 14.634 billion pesos was imposed, equivalent to about 11.6 million dollars. This measure aims to secure the possible restitution of funds in case of a guilty verdict.
What is the connection between the corruption charges and the allegations of gender-based violence against Alberto Fernández?
Both allegations stem from judicial investigations, but they are independent cases. Fernández is facing a corruption charge and another for gender-based violence against his ex-partner, Fabiola Yáñez. Both cases are based on evidence and testimonies that include content from the phone of a former presidential secretary.
What other officials are involved in the case against Alberto Fernández?
The case involves 33 individuals, including Héctor Martínez Sosa, his wife María Cantero, and the former president of Nación Seguros, Alberto Pagliano. These individuals are accused of improperly benefiting through economic maneuvers under Fernández's administration.
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