Sáenz Attacks Kirchner Over ‘Notebooks’ Case Testimony, Demands PJ Leadership Resignation

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Political Fallout in Argentina as Sáenz and Kirchner Clash Over ‘Cuadernos’ Case

Buenos Aires – A renewed political dispute has erupted in Argentina between Salta Governor Gustavo Sáenz and former President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, stemming from allegations made during Kirchner’s recent testimony in the “Cuadernos de las Coimas” (Notebooks of Bribes) case. The case, which involves a sprawling investigation into alleged corruption during Kirchner’s administrations, continues to generate significant political reverberations. Governor Sáenz has accused Kirchner of attempting to “smear” his reputation, while Kirchner maintains she was simply presenting documented information related to a 2019 investigation into alleged extortion attempts.

The core of the dispute centers around claims made by Marcelo D’Alessio, a convicted fraudster, in 2019. D’Alessio, during an investigation into extortion schemes, reportedly identified Sáenz as a “recaudador” – a collector – for prosecutor Carlos Stornelli. Kirchner referenced this information during her testimony, prompting a swift and forceful response from Sáenz, who asserts his innocence and claims the accusations are politically motivated. This latest exchange underscores the deep-seated tensions within Argentina’s political landscape and the ongoing legal battles surrounding the “Cuadernos” scandal.

Kirchner’s Testimony and the 2019 Allegations

Cristina Kirchner’s testimony before the court on March 18, 2026, revisited events from 2019 involving a report published by journalist Horacio Verbitsky in El Cohete a la Luna. The report detailed alleged extortion attempts linked to D’Alessio and Stornelli. According to Kirchner’s account, D’Alessio implicated Sáenz as a figure involved in collecting funds for Stornelli. La Nación reported that Kirchner did not directly name Sáenz but referenced the report’s claims.

The “Cuadernos de las Coimas” case originated from the discovery of notebooks allegedly detailing a systematic bribery scheme involving government officials and business leaders during Kirchner’s presidency (2007-2015) and that of her late husband, Néstor Kirchner. The investigation, led by prosecutor Stornelli, has resulted in numerous indictments and convictions, but has too been plagued by controversy and allegations of political manipulation. The case has become a focal point of political polarization in Argentina, with supporters of Kirchner claiming it is a politically motivated witch hunt, and opponents arguing it is a legitimate effort to combat corruption.

Sáenz’s Response and Defense

Governor Sáenz vehemently denied the allegations, labeling them as “lies and defamation” aimed at damaging his reputation. He responded to Kirchner’s claims via social media, sharing a video of Judge Alejo Ramos Padilla’s testimony from 2019. Clarín reported that Sáenz accused Kirchner of attempting to “dirty” his name. The video, according to Sáenz, demonstrates that he was previously cleared of any involvement in the “Cuadernos” case. Ramos Padilla’s testimony reportedly stated that Sáenz had cooperated with investigators and provided information that did not implicate him in any wrongdoing.

Sáenz also criticized Mayra Mendoza, a provincial deputy and former national legislator, for sharing a photograph on social media depicting him with Stornelli and D’Alessio. Mendoza’s post, as reported by Clarín, questioned the lack of evidence against Kirchner while highlighting Sáenz’s association with the two controversial figures. Sáenz countered that Mendoza was selectively presenting information and ignoring the judge’s previous findings that exonerated him.

The Role of Marcelo D’Alessio and Carlos Stornelli

The involvement of Marcelo D’Alessio and Carlos Stornelli is central to the current dispute. D’Alessio, a self-proclaimed lawyer, was convicted in 2023 to 13 years in prison for attempted extortion, according to reports. He allegedly operated a network that offered to drop legal cases in exchange for bribes. Stornelli, the prosecutor who led the initial investigation into the “Cuadernos” case, has also faced scrutiny and accusations of misconduct. He has consistently maintained his innocence and claimed that the allegations against him are part of a smear campaign.

The relationship between D’Alessio, Stornelli, and Sáenz, as alleged by Kirchner, is the crux of the matter. Kirchner’s testimony suggests that D’Alessio identified Sáenz as a key figure in collecting funds for Stornelli’s investigations. Sáenz, still, insists that he has never been involved in any illicit activities and that the accusations are based on false information provided by a convicted criminal.

Broader Political Implications

This latest clash between Sáenz and Kirchner occurs against a backdrop of increasing political tension in Argentina. Kirchner, despite no longer being in office, remains a powerful figure within the Peronist movement and continues to exert significant influence on Argentine politics. Sáenz, as governor of Salta, represents a key province and is seen as a potential future contender for national office. The dispute over the “Cuadernos” case could have implications for the upcoming elections and the future direction of the country.

the case raises broader questions about the integrity of the Argentine judicial system and the potential for political interference in legal proceedings. Critics argue that the “Cuadernos” case has been used as a tool to target political opponents, while supporters maintain that it is a necessary step towards combating corruption. The ongoing legal battles and political accusations surrounding the case are likely to continue to dominate the Argentine political landscape for the foreseeable future.

The governor of Salta has also repeatedly called for Kirchner to step down from her position as president of the Partido Justicialista (PJ), the dominant Peronist political party. This demand, however, has been dismissed by Kirchner and her supporters as a political maneuver.

As the legal proceedings in the “Cuadernos de las Coimas” case continue, and with further testimonies scheduled in the coming weeks, the political ramifications are expected to intensify. The next key date is April 15, 2026, when a preliminary ruling on the admissibility of certain evidence is expected. The outcome of this ruling could significantly impact the trajectory of the case and the future of those implicated. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are anticipated as the investigation progresses.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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