08.10.2025 20:23
Argentinian President Javier Milei turned the launch of his new book into a rock concert in front of 15,000 supporters. Amid an economic crisis shaking the country, corruption scandals, and protests, Milei took the microphone in a stadium filled with 15,000 people and became the target of harsh criticism from the opposition due to his surprising performance on stage.
Argentine President Javier Milei unexpectedly turned the launch of his new book into a rock concert on the evening of October 7, Monday, in the capital Buenos Aires.
BOOK PROMOTION TURNED INTO ROCK CONCERT The event organized for the promotion of his book titled "The Construction of Miracle" evolved into a stage show broadcast live on state television. Starting the event in a leather jacket, Milei took the stage at the closing in a suit and tie, announcing that he would begin comprehensive reforms if he gains power in Congress after December 10.
At the event, which gathered around 15,000 people, Milei sang Charly García's "Demoliendo Hoteles" and Nino Bravo's "Libre," referencing both Argentina's dark military period and post-Franco Spain. Analysts noted that this show was a step aimed at motivating his voter base ahead of the upcoming legislative elections on October 26.
ESPERT SCANDAL AND $200,000 CONNECTION However, there are discussions that there might be another reason behind this show: a corruption scandal involving one of the government's most important candidates. José Luis Espert, who was nominated as a candidate for the Buenos Aires provincial legislature from Milei's party, found himself at the center of a major scandal just three weeks before the elections. It was revealed that Espert received $200,000 from businessman Federico "Fred" Machado, who came into the spotlight in 2020 due to drug trafficking and money laundering allegations.
José Luis Espert Initially denying the allegations, Espert claimed that the money was in exchange for consulting services he provided to a mining company in Guatemala. However, after the U.S. Department of Justice indicted Machado on serious charges in 2021, Espert's relationship with this businessman began to be scrutinized in depth. Bank records and travel documents revealed that Espert used Machado's private jet and had a direct business relationship with him.
WITHDREW FROM CANDIDACY On October 5, Espert announced via social media that he was withdrawing from his candidacy for the legislature. He stated to the public that the allegations were a "conspiracy set up against him by the system," asserting that he would prove his innocence in court.
This development represented a serious political blow for the Milei government. Some figures within the party demanded Espert's complete removal from office, while the party leadership took swift action. Diego Santilli, a close ally of former President Mauricio Macri, was nominated to replace Espert. This change aimed to control the crisis within the party and restore public confidence.
Diego Santilli STRONG REACTION FROM THE OPPOSITION: LIVING IN ANOTHER REALITY The show that Milei performed on stage resonated not only with his supporters but also drew significant criticism from the opposition. Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof criticized the situation with the words, "The president is living in another reality," while former Defense Minister and former Economy Minister Ricardo López Murphy posted on social media, "Return to planet Earth, Mr. President. Our country needs you here."
ECONOMIC CRISIS AT THE FOREFRONT OF PUBLIC CONCERNS The deep economic crisis in Argentina is at the forefront of public concerns. Annual inflation has exceeded 120%; the peso is rapidly losing value. Prices of basic consumer goods change almost daily. This uncertainty, felt in every area from grocery shopping to fuel, is a major source of concern, especially for low-income groups.
Despite this situation, Milei's support base, particularly among the young and urban middle class, continues to stand by him. The president's stage performances are seen by some as a hopeful message aimed at uplifting the public's morale. On the other hand, the opposition argues that such events serve to distract from economic issues.