Trial of Cristina and Máximo Kirchner Begins in Argentina Money Laundering Case

MADRID, Oct 23 (OPA) — The trial, held before Federal Oral Tribunal 5 in Buenos Aires, involves 25 defendants accused of operating a scheme to channel illicit funds. Judges José Michilini, Adriana Pallioti, and Fernando Machado Pelloni are presiding over the case, with prosecutor Diego Velasco leading the state’s evidence. The defendants are accused of utilizing the Hotesur and Los Sauces companies to launder money obtained from business figures who benefited from government infrastructure projects.

Victor Manzanares, a former accountant for the Kirchner family who is cooperating with authorities, appeared in person at the Retiro federal courthouse. Manzanares told the court he intends to answer for his actions and expects a verdict that provides closure. The tribunal began the session by addressing procedural motions before initiating the formal reading of the indictment, a process expected to span several days.

This marks the third corruption-related trial for the former president, while it is the first time her son, a national deputy, has faced charges in this specific judicial forum. The prosecution alleges that the Kirchner family established a complex real estate and hotel network to legitimize assets derived from state-awarded contracts. The court has mandated that the trial proceed in a unified format to address both the Hotesur and Los Sauces files simultaneously.

Presiding Judge Michilini confirmed that while the initial hearing was conducted via Zoom for the Kirchners, the court expects the proceedings to continue with standard in-person requirements. The tribunal has scheduled the reading of the accusations to continue through the coming week, ensuring the legal timeline for both cases is met. The court remains under scrutiny as it manages one of the most high-profile corruption cases in recent Argentine history.