Ex-president Fernandez has to stand trial for graft

An Argentine judge on Thursday ordered ex-president Alberto Fernandez to stand trial for alleged corruption relating to insurance policies taken out by government departments during his 2019-2023 term.

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Mr Fernandez will be prosecuted for “negotiations incompatible with the exercise of public office”, according to Judge Sebastian Casanello's decision, published in Argentine media and confirmed by defence lawyer Mariana Barbitta.

Ms Barbitta called it “an arbitrary, unfounded decision” that her team would appeal.

The 66-year-old stands accused of fraudulent administration over his government's use of brokers — one of whom allegedly had ties to his office — to contract insurance policies that could have been negotiated directly.

The main broker was allegedly the husband of Mr Fernandez’s personal secretary. The former president was aware of the arrangement, the judge’s brief said.