The former Minister of Defense and current national deputy of United Republicans, Ricardo López Murphy, raised the possibility of allowing the subordination of military forces to military commands under certain circumstances, as long as it is within an updated legal framework. Regarding recent military exercises that have generated controversy, such as the case of a Navy cadet in a riot control exercise, López Murphy expressed that it was likely a preparation for UN peacekeeping missions.
In an interview with Splendid AM 990, he stated that the Armed Forces should focus on their own tasks and not on police functions, as they do not have the necessary training to act as police forces. In this regard, he defended the role of the Gendarmerie, Prefecture, and Airport Security Police to carry out security tasks in border areas or in emergency situations. He emphasized that it is essential for these forces to be deployed at the borders, as that is their main function, rather than performing riot control duties in urban areas.
López Murphy advocated for a modernization of the legal framework that regulates the functions of the Armed Forces and proposed a system similar to that of countries like Brazil or Uruguay, which includes a special regime for border areas without the need to declare a state of siege. Regarding cases of improper conduct, he emphasized that these must be sanctioned by the justice system. Similarly, referring to the death of an Army soldier in Bahía Blanca during an exercise, he highlighted the risky nature of the military profession and the importance of preserving the integrity and health of military personnel, considering it the most valuable investment of an armed force.
In contrast to Minister Luis Petri's decision to involve the Armed Forces in internal security tasks, López Murphy stressed the responsibility of superiors to protect the health and well-being of their personnel at all times.
