Milei’s Cabinet Chief Quits as Corruption Probe Rocks Argentine Government
Buenos Aires — Argentine President Javier Milei’s Cabinet chief, Manuel Adorni, resigned on Saturday after becoming the focus of a corruption investigation, dealing a political setback to the libertarian administration as it seeks to preserve its anti-corruption credentials.
Adorni, one of Milei’s closest allies and a central figure in implementing the government’s austerity agenda, submitted his resignation amid a federal investigation into alleged illicit enrichment linked to his personal finances and property acquisitions. He has denied any wrongdoing.
In a resignation letter posted on social media, Adorni thanked Milei for his support, saying, “For the first time since December 10, 2023, I am going against your wishes,” referring to the date Milei assumed office. He described the investigation as an “unjust, painful and exhausting process” for himself and his family.
The resignation removes one of the president’s most influential advisers, who was appointed Cabinet chief last year after serving as government spokesperson. In the role, Adorni oversaw negotiations with provincial governors and lawmakers while defending the administration’s fiscal reforms.
The investigation follows months of scrutiny over Adorni’s spending habits and real estate purchases. Media reports questioned how he financed luxury travel, including trips aboard private aircraft and vacations abroad, as well as the purchase of residential properties, despite public financial disclosures showing a monthly government salary of approximately $2,600 until late last year.
Earlier this month, Adorni acknowledged purchasing U.S. dollars through Argentina’s parallel currency market and failing to declare approximately $500,000 in savings to tax authorities. He maintained that the funds had been earned legally, including through cryptocurrency investments, and denied engaging in corruption.
Milei has consistently defended his longtime ally despite mounting political pressure. During a visit to Spain last week, the president said Adorni was innocent and reiterated his support for members of his Cabinet facing allegations.
Government officials did not immediately announce a successor, while Milei’s spokesperson declined to comment on the resignation. Presidential adviser Karina Milei thanked Adorni for what she described as his dedicated service, calling him an upright and valued member of the governing libertarian movement.
The resignation comes as Milei’s administration faces increasing scrutiny over its commitment to transparency, a central promise of the president’s 2023 election campaign, while pursuing sweeping economic reforms aimed at reducing inflation and restoring fiscal stability.
