Argentine President Javier Milei has dismissed Labour Minister Omar Yasín for authorizing a salary increase for ministers and other senior cabinet members amid the country’s severe economic crisis. Milei announced the decision during a live broadcast on TV channel LN+ on Monday, stating that Yasín was being notified of his termination.
The president faced backlash after it was revealed that he had received a 48% pay raise, despite previously criticizing lawmakers for their 30% salary increase. Milei attributed the pay hike to a decree signed by former President Cristina Kirchner in 2010, which he claimed was automatic. However, Kirchner refuted this, stating that while she may have signed the decree 14 years ago, it was Milei who implemented its payment this year.
Milei labeled the salary raise as an “error” and emphasized that it should not have occurred, especially given that ministers had previously agreed to manage with frozen salaries. Consequently, he terminated Yasín’s position as Labour Minister.
The president also announced that the salary increase already paid to officials would be deducted from their next paycheck. The move reflects Milei’s efforts to address public concerns and demonstrate accountability amidst the ongoing economic challenges facing Argentina.
