The Massismo bloc in Argentina has distanced itself from Kirchnerism by proposing to support a bill to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 16 to 14 years with its own project in the National Congress.
In the context of an upcoming vote on juvenile criminal law in Argentina's Chamber of Deputies and amid judicial scandals involving Sergio Massa, the leader of the Frente Renovador, the Massismo has chosen to distance itself from Kirchnerism. This move appears to be both a strategic alignment with the current government led by Javier Milei and an attempt to redefine their position ahead of upcoming legislative discussions.
The proposed law aims to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 16 to 14 years, aligning with the government's initiative that has gained support from most of the ruling coalition in Congress. However, Massismo has expressed concerns that lowering the age without the concurrent reform of the Criminal Code could invite judicial challenges and questions around constitutionality, potentially complicating its implementation.
As the session in Congress approaches, set for next Thursday, Massismo plans to abstain from voting on the proposed law, highlighting their intentions to navigate the political landscape cautiously. This decision is reflective of broader tensions within Argentina’s political factions and the ongoing struggle for influence and legitimacy within the legislative process, particularly when addressing sensitive issues like youth criminal responsibility.
