Argentina and Ecuador Legislators Push for Accountability of Officials

In Córdoba Province, Argentina, lawmakers from all opposition blocs presented a joint request to the provincial Jury of Trial demanding the suspension and possible dismissal of prosecutor Raúl Garzón. They accuse him of serious negligence and delays in the investigation of the disappearance and femicide of 14‑year‑old Agostina Vega, including shortcomings in activating the federal Alerta Sofía protocol and in executing searches of suspect Claudio Barrelier's home.

In Ecuador, the National Assembly’s Commission of Oversight blocked a political trial against former Energy Minister Inés Manzano, a move that the opposition front Revolución Ciudadana denounced as a protection of a figure they label the “worst scum” of the country. The bloc argues the decision shields Manzano despite the ongoing Progen scandal involving alleged loss of over US$100 million and a severe energy crisis, and calls for a thorough investigation of responsibility at higher levels of government.