ARGENTINA’s lower chamber of deputies voted 144-109 in favor of President Javier Milei‘s comprehensive “Omnibus” Reform Bill.
Argentina currently is grappling with an economic crisis, with 211% year-on-year inflation and over 40% of the population living in poverty.
Milei’s government contends that the proposed reforms in the Omnibus Reform Bill will help repair the country’s finances.
To recall, lawmakers began debating Milei’s reform package on Wednesday, which includes the privatization of state-run companies and grants emergency powers across political, social, fiscal, legal, and other sectors.
The bill faced challenges as Milei’s Libertarian Party, La Libertad Avanza, is in a minority in both chambers.
But the Argentine president and his party managed to navigate the legislative process by securing support from like-minded allies, including the main center-right Juntos Por el Cambio Coalition, to advance the bill.
The next hurdle for the reform package will be the Senate, where Milei’s party commands approximately 10% of the seats.
If passed, the reforms would mark a significant victory for President Milei, who assumed office less than two months ago.
Argentina: Protesters, police clash as rally vs economic reform bill continues
The approval of the Congress follows days of heated debates and clashes between protesters, waving flags in opposition to Milei’s reforms, and riot police outside the congressional building.
Meanwhile, on Saturday morning, protesters rallied in Buenos Aires to express their strong opposition to the omnibus bill by burning rubbish in the middle of the road.
Firefighters were called to extinguish it.
Police officers with shields were also seen confronting and chasing the protesters.
Some of them can be seen using firearms, as well as pepper and tear gas against protesters.
According to media reports, hundreds of security services agents including motorbike convoys were involved in a confrontation with protesters.
Three protesters were reportedly injured, while several more were arrested.
