The United Metalworkers' Union (UOM) went ahead with its scheduled electoral congress on Wednesday, openly defying a recent court ruling that had ordered the suspension of their elections amidst allegations of electoral irregularities. Despite the legal setback, the union successfully re-elected Abel Furlán for another four-year term, reflecting the considerable backing he has from union representatives across the nation. The congress was held at a union hotel in San Telmo, Buenos Aires, where Furlán secured an overwhelming majority in the voting process.

During the election, 270 out of 276 eligible representatives participated, where Furlán garnered approximately 80% of the votes cast, amounting to 215 endorsements from the delegates. The support came from 48 of the 53 sections of the UOM, showcasing Furlán's strong grip over the union amidst a divided response from certain sections. Opponents of Furlán's re-election, particularly from the Capital, Villa Constitución, Santa Fe, and La Plata sections, expressed dissent, noting allegations around the electoral process that contributed to the court's initial intervention.

Furlán's victory not only reinforces his leadership but also raises questions about the union's internal governance and the implications of defying judicial authority. This scenario reflects ongoing tensions within the UOM and possible challenges ahead, as the dissenting factions may seek to contest the legitimacy of his re-election and pursue further legal avenues to address the electoral irregularities they cited.