the day after the election of President Javier Milei, Argentina appears divided

Argentine ultraliberal economist Javier Milei won the presidential election on Sunday. In the country’s capital, residents oscillate between sadness and relief.

In the streets of Buenos Aires, everyone’s ideology is clearly visible on their faces, either they are serious or on the contrary radiant. After the surprise triumph of Javier Milei on Sunday November 19, the country seems deeply divided.

The new ultraliberal president promises a “shock treatment” to Argentina. He finished 11 points above his opponent. In a park, Esther, for example, happily drinks a mate in the grass. “I am very happy with the electionrejoices Esther. Now my fridge is always empty and I have to work two jobs to feed my children.”

“Politics has disappointed me so in the years to come with Javier Milei, I hope to be able to progress, and that this will be the case for everyone.”

Esther, resident of Buenos Aires

at franceinfo

Further on, Johanna walks her dog with her head down, visibly very distressed by the result of the vote: “I have felt a deep sadness since Sunday evening. I do not understand how a person with this level of violence managed to become president. I feel that he does not represent me at all but we must be strong, remain united so that all the rights acquired in recent times should not be taken away from us.”

A period of uncertainty

Next to Johanna, with tears in her eyes, her companion Paul is more virulent and worried about the economy. “If he wants to dollarize, people will want dollars and that will create a rush for foreign currencies, prices will rise but not wages. And in 2001, how did it end? Practically a civil war.”

“I think we’re heading into a difficult time and I just hope it’s as chaotic as possible.”

Paul, resident of Buenos Aires

at franceinfo

The majority of Argentina opted for change. But at what cost ? A period of uncertainty now begins at least until December 10, the day of Milei’s inauguration.