Argentine Political Club warns of institutional "degradation" amid judicial selection controversy

The Argentine Political Club has issued a stark warning about the "growing degradation" of the nation's fundamental institutions, particularly concerning the judicial system. The organization, led by Ricardo Gerardi and honorary president Graciela Fernández Meijide, emphasized that the selection of judges must be based solely on moral, professional, and academic merit.

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Argentina has been experiencing a growing degradation of its fundamental institutions for some time. When this degradation affects the justice system, the foundations that allow us to live together begin to crumble.

"Argentina has been experiencing a growing degradation of its fundamental institutions for some time. When this degradation affects the justice system, the foundations that allow us to live together begin to crumble," the club stated in a document. The statement appears to address recent controversies surrounding judicial appointments, including the vetting of candidates by the Senate and presidential vetoes, without naming specific individuals.

The club criticized the current appointment process, asserting that it violates established procedures and should exclusively rely on "idoneidad" (suitability), as mandated by the Constitution. They argued that other criteria would amount to discrimination based on personal beliefs, background, or life choices. The organization also praised a proposal by Supreme Court justices Ricardo Lorenzetti and Carlos Rosenkrantz aimed at curbing political discretion in judicial selections.

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The selection process for judges violates established procedures. It must be based exclusively on the criterion of suitability, which the Constitution requires. The moral, professional, and academic worth of the candidates are the only selection criteria.

While acknowledging that the selection procedure could be improved, the Argentine Political Club stressed the importance of respecting the current regime until a new model is approved. "We need to trust in the adherence to fair procedures and reasoned decisions," they urged, concluding that "trust regenerates personal, social, and political bonds" and is the cornerstone for rebuilding social coexistence and enabling stable development.

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We need to trust in the adherence to fair procedures and reasoned decisions.