Former Argentine President Alberto Fernández is facing new legal challenges as Federal Judge Julián Ercolini has decided to proceed with charges against him for alleged gender-based violence against his former partner, Fabiola Yáñez. The ruling, issued on Monday, asserts there is sufficient evidence to charge Fernández with both minor and major injuries in a context of domestic violence, as well as coercive threats, according to EFE news agency.
The investigation, which included testimony from Yáñez, aged 43, and over a dozen witnesses, concluded that the incidents reported were not isolated but part of a continuous pattern of violence. As part of the decision, the judge ordered the seizure of the former leader's assets valued at 10 million pesos (approximately $10,000) and upheld the restriction preventing Fernández from approaching Yáñez within 500 meters or attempting any form of contact with her.
However, the restriction that barred the ex-president from leaving the country, which had been put in place in August 2024, was lifted. Judge Ercolini emphasized in his ruling that there are "multiple elements demonstrating the habitual and continuous violence exerted by Fernández on Yáñez," detailing that the former president allegedly engaged in harassment, psychological manipulation, and physical assaults. This issue has been extensively covered across various digital platforms.
Fernández, who served as president from 2019 to 2023, is also under investigation for alleged irregularities in public sector insurance contracts that reportedly caused a $300 million loss to the state.
A History of Allegations and Digital Evidence
The allegations made by Yáñez against Fernández gained traction in July 2024, when, during an investigation into suspected influence peddling, conversations and photos allegedly showing the assaults were found on the phone of one of the former president's ex-secretaries. Fernández, who provided a deposition two weeks ago, denied the accusations and dismissed the evidence against him, claiming that the charges are politically motivated. Nevertheless, both the prosecution and the judge believe the evidence and testimonies are enough to move forward with the case.
This decision places Fernández in a challenging legal position that could lead to a trial, amid growing social and political pressure over the advancement of gender violence cases in Argentina.
Key Questions About Alberto Fernández's Legal Case
What charges is Alberto Fernández facing?
Alberto Fernández is facing charges of minor and major injuries in the context of domestic violence, as well as coercive threats against his former partner, Fabiola Yáñez.
What evidence has been presented against Fernández?
The evidence includes testimony from Fabiola Yáñez and over a dozen witnesses, as well as conversations and photographs found on a former secretary's phone, which allegedly show the assaults.
What legal restrictions has Fernández been subjected to?
Fernández has been ordered not to approach Fabiola Yáñez within 500 meters or contact her by any means. However, a previous restriction preventing him from leaving the country has been lifted.
Are there other investigations against Fernández?
Yes, Fernández is also being investigated for alleged irregularities in public sector insurance contracts, which reportedly resulted in a $300 million loss for the state.