Rosario Police Protest: Demands for Government Response

Rosario, in the Santa Fe province, is experiencing a new police protest on Wednesday, demanding better salaries and working conditions. The protest, which began Monday evening at the local police headquarters, has already lasted over 48 hours. The conflict escalated with patrol cars sounding sirens in central streets and causing traffic disruptions. The demonstration is being led by police officers, joined by their families, who demand fair wages, better pay, and improved working conditions, including better mental health support. The provincial government, led by Governor Maximiliano Pullaro, has taken a hardline stance, accusing protesters of political maneuvers and launching investigations against at least 20 officers for allegedly failing their official duties. Police Chief Luis Maldonado confirmed that no further dismissals will occur and that 13 of the imposed sanctions will be lifted as a gesture to de-escalate the conflict. He called on officers to return to their regular duties, emphasizing the need for “disposition and goodwill” to move forward in negotiations. Protesters, however, reaffirmed their intention to continue until a substantial breakthrough is achieved in talks with provincial authorities. This protest is part of a larger trend across the country, raising concerns about the impact on public safety. Negotiations continued on Wednesday with mediation from the provincial Security and Economy ministries. Patrol cars with sirens on remain deployed in the city center, and protesters are gathered near the police station. Some officers have been placed on availability, causing internal unrest and deepening tensions. During the early hours of Wednesday, Police Chief Luis Maldonado approached the protesters at the headquarters to talk amid the heightened sirens. Provincial authorities pledged to maintain public order and normal services by deploying officers from other stations and special forces.