Kirchner claims may wrong-foot Macri in Argentina

Significance

Perez Corradi has previously attempted to implicate Fernandez and other allies of former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner in drug-related activities, and his statements are questionable. However, they come as a number of her confidants face criminal investigations and charges; she herself is under investigation and may face trial.

Impacts

• Macri may hope quietly to delay or sideline some of the cases mounting against Fernandez de Kirchner and allies.
• The allegations may prove only a temporary distraction from economic gloom.
• Perceptions of lack of judicial independence and integrity may be cemented, not diminished.