Judge Lijo and Minister Mahiques Attended a GAFI Meeting Together in Paris

Argentine Justice Minister Juan Bautista Mahiques and federal judge Ariel Lijo were photographed together at a Financial Action Task Force (GAFI) summit in Paris, an event where the international anti-money laundering body highlighted the Argentine judiciary's participation. The government released the photograph, noting GAFI's praise for the judiciary's involvement.

The joint trip has sparked controversy and suspicion, particularly because Judge Lijo is presiding over an investigation into Chief of Staff Manuel Adorni for alleged illicit enrichment. It remains unclear whether Mahiques and Lijo discussed this specific case during their travel.

Lijo was part of a delegation from the Argentine judiciary that presented before GAFI. Other members included federal judge Sebastián Casanello and Tomás Rodríguez Ponte, head of the Directorate of Judicial Assistance in Complex Crimes and Organized Crime (Dajudeco). Matías Alvarez, president of the Financial Information Unit (UIF), also attended. The trip was scheduled to continue until Friday.

The minister's and judge's presence together has also drawn political interest due to internal government dynamics. Mahiques is reportedly aligned with Karina Milei, while Lijo is considered close to presidential advisor Santiago Caputo. These factions are reportedly in tension, particularly concerning recent nominations sent to Congress. Lijo was previously a candidate for the Supreme Court but did not secure Senate approval. He is also handling other sensitive cases for the government, including an investigation into alleged bribes at the National Disability Agency (Andis).