Buenos Aires, Oct 9, (dpa/GNA) – Three years after a failed assassination attempt on former Argentinian president Cristina Kirchner, the perpetrators have been sentenced to several years in prison.
The main suspect received a 10-year sentence for attempted murder, which, combined with another conviction, totals 14 years.
His then-girlfriend, who helped plan the attack, was sentenced to eight years in prison at the court in Buenos Aires. Another defendant was acquitted. The reasoning behind the verdict is set to be published on December 9, after which the defence lawyers may file an appeal.
On September 1, 2022, a man pointed a pistol at Kirchner at close range outside her home in Buenos Aires, and pulled the trigger at least once. However, no shot was fired. The man was then overpowered by Kirchner’s supporters and arrested by police.
The former president (2007–2015) is both popular and controversial in Argentina. At the time of the failed attack, she was serving as vice president under President Alberto Fernández, but was widely regarded as the real power behind the government.
Kirchner herself has faced repeated legal troubles, and was recently sentenced to six years in prison for corruption, which she is serving under house arrest.
GNA