Argentine judge denounces "media harassment" and seeks sanctions for judicial leaks

Carlos Mahiques, a judge on the Federal Criminal Cassation Chamber in Argentina, has formally complained about what he describes as "media harassment" targeting judicial officials. In a letter to the court's president, Mahiques called for "ethical sanctions" against magistrates and employees who leak information to the press.

Mahiques, whose father is a minister in President Javier Milei's government, condemned the "incessant promotion and dissemination in the audiovisual media of false, distorted, or erroneous information and publications related to the magistracy and its members." He argued that this media treatment, which he claims prioritizes sensationalism over factual analysis, violates the republican principle of maintaining objective public information.

The judge specifically criticized media outlets, including "S.A. La Nación+", for what he termed "innumerable comments, articles, or editorials" that he believes are biased. He accused certain communicators of spreading suspicions and falsehoods about judges, using "sarcastically or caricatured, if not decidedly injurious" terms.

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As the only one of those responsible for "Falsche Bewegung" back then who is still here, I see that Nastassja Kinski should have been better protected. For that, I ask for your forgiveness, Nastassja, without ifs or buts.

Mahiques views these actions not as isolated incidents but as a pattern of hostility orchestrated by what he calls "new sycophants" aiming to undermine the judiciary. He warned that these attacks have a "corrosive effect on the image, dignity, and legitimacy of the Justice system as a power of the State." Mahiques stated he is considering legal action regarding statements made about him, evaluating whether the "supposedly informative harassment" warrants civil or criminal penalties.

He also declared himself a victim of a lack of protection, asserting that judges and officials lack legal safeguards against "exaggerated criticism, mockery, and public shaming," which often go unpunished under the guise of free expression or source protection.

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The judges and officials, Mr. President, lack any legal protection against exaggerated criticism, mockery, and public shaming, as everything usually goes unpunished under the guise of freedom of expression or the guarantee of 'preservation of sources'.