Allen Mayor Marcelo Román Suspended Over Alleged $877 Million Festival Misuse

The municipal council of Allen in Río Negro approved Ordinance 044/2026, which imposes a preventive suspension on Mayor Marcelo Román pending a criminal investigation for alleged embezzlement and fraudulent administration. Román is accused of spending roughly $877 million on the "Fiesta de la Pera" festival, a cost that rose more than 4,000 % in a single year.

The ordinance was published in the municipal official bulletin, triggering a five‑day countdown that makes the suspension effective this Friday. During the suspension Román will receive no salary or related benefits. Council President Fabián Figueroa will assume provisional executive authority, while council member Guillermo Pennesi will lead the legislative body. Román’s attempt to veto the ordinance failed, and the measure remains in force until a final court ruling.