Argentine President Milei Swears in Government in Private Ceremony
Argentine President Javier Milei conducted a private swearing-in for the new government, with La Nación reporting that the ceremony took place without press coverage or official publication. The choice to hold the event out of sight raised questions about transparency and the administration’s approach to communication with the public.
According to the newspaper, ministers were sworn in secretly, marking a notable departure from traditional practices where openings are typically announced through formal channels accessible to the press and public observers. This marked policy move was described as unprecedented by the publication, emphasizing the secrecy surrounding the process.
Concurrently, observers noted a significant consolidation within the administration, with the number of ministries reportedly reduced by half. The restructuring signaled Milei’s intent to streamline government functions and possibly refocus state priorities as the new leadership set its course.
During the transition, Milei accepted the staff and symbols associated with his leadership. A ceremonial baton, bearing the image of five dogs, was highlighted as a personal motif connected to the president. The publication notes that the staff Milei accepted on Sunday features the likenesses of these five canines, and the names of the dogs are inscribed on the baton as a personal tribute to companions Milei has described as his best friends and even as his children. He indicated gratitude to the dogs for their role in his political journey and personal life, remarking that all the dogs share names inspired by famous economists.
According to a biography by Juan Luis González, which discusses Milei, the dogs are described as clones of a mastiff named Conan. The historical pet accompanied Milei for many years, offering companionship and bringing joy to his life. Conan reportedly died in 2017, after which Milei decided to clone the dog, thereby preserving the bond in a symbolic form within the presidential staff’s emblem.
In a separate incident, former Argentine Vice President Cristina Kirchner, then 70 years old, was observed making a provocative gesture toward Milei’s supporters, a moment that underscored the continuing political tensions within the country as the new government established its footing.