The former referee and opposing figure of the El Porvenir club, Rubén Pascualino, explained the reasons that led him to request the intervention of the institution, clarifying that "this is not a municipal issue." Pascualino stated that the intervention was requested by the Director of Records and Administrative Management of the Provincial Directorate of Legal Persons of the Province of Buenos Aires after years of complaints from the Front for Historical and Institutional Recovery of the club, a group to which he belongs.
According to Pascualino, the disaffiliation from AFA is due to the actions of the president of El Porvenir, Enrique Merelas, who attempted to attribute the intervention to the Municipality of Lanús. Pascualino described Merelas as a "tyrant" who has held power for 44 years with few elections and numerous allegations against him.
During the interview with the Argentine News Agency, Pascualino explained that Merelas's actions, such as the expulsion of members and acts of corruption, led to the deterioration of the club. Among the irregularities pointed out are the management of land without transparency and the closure of member registration, which contributed to a lack of democracy within the institution.
Pascualino emphasized that the goal of the intervention is to reorganize the club and eradicate the corrupt practices that have affected its operation in recent years. Despite the disaffiliation from AFA, fans have shown support for the intervention, calling for Merelas's departure as a measure to establish a more democratic and transparent environment at El Porvenir.
The former referee also highlighted the allegations presented against Merelas, which include embezzlement of funds, manipulation of the electoral roll, and removal of lifetime members to consolidate his control over the institution. Pascualino stressed the need to reform the club and regain its financial integrity, with the support of the members and the implementation of transparent elections.
Despite the accusations and complaints, Merelas has maintained his position in the club for decades, creating an institutional crisis that has led to the requested intervention. Pascualino concluded that the intervention is necessary to restore legality at El Porvenir and allow the institution to regain its prestige and stability in the sports and social sphere.
