The President of the Nation, Javier Milei, announced the designation in commission of Ariel Lijo and Manuel García-Mansilla as members of the Supreme Court of Justice. This occurred after a prolonged period during which the Senate did not process the nominations sent by the Executive. The background of both candidates was sent to the Upper House on May 27, 2024, and all the corresponding legal procedures were fulfilled, including the public hearings held in August of that year.
Lijo was nominated by decree, which generated criticism such as that from Francisco Paoltroni, who stated that this action was a disappointment for those expecting an independent and high-quality judiciary in Argentina. Despite all required legal procedures being followed, the Senate did not advance in the analysis of the nominations, leading the Executive to justify the designation in commission.
The Government emphasized that the National Constitution grants the President the authority to propose Supreme Court judges, while the Senate must assess the suitability of the candidates without political influence. It was pointed out that the politicization of the judiciary system affects the functioning of the justice service in the country. The Casa Rosada stated that it is necessary to fill vacancies in the Court to ensure its proper functioning, as there are currently only three ministers in office.
Amid the lack of resolution from the Senate, the Government defended the measure of designation in commission as a way to ensure the proper functioning of the Supreme Court until Congress resumes consideration of the nominations. The commitment to continue the legislative process for the Senate to fulfill its constitutional role in evaluating the proposed candidates was reiterated.
