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Maradona trial pending: judge under fire!
In the Maradona trial, the court is discussing a possible restart and the removal of Judge Makintach, while allegations of partiality are in the air.
Maradona trial pending: judge under fire!
The trial surrounding the death of Argentine soccer star Diego Maradona is about to be restarted. How Small newspaper reports, there are discussions about the possible removal of Judge Julieta Makintach from the three-member panel. The lack of clarity as to whether it can simply be replaced or whether the entire process needs to be restarted raises questions about the integrity of the judiciary.
Lawyer Fernando Burlando, who represents the interests of Maradona's daughters, described the situation as a scandal and sharply criticized the Argentine justice system. The case is particularly explosive due to the accusation that unauthorized filming was carried out in the courtroom, which may have been done with Makintach's help. Despite these allegations, Makintach denies having participated in or authorized the filming. Circumstances even required the trial to be adjourned for a week to review Makintach's role, such as AP News has determined.
Criticism of the judiciary
Another lawyer, Mario Baudry, who represents Maradona's former partner, is also calling for the proceedings to be restarted. Meanwhile, two defense lawyers for the defendants, who are on trial on negligence charges related to Maradona's death, have also asked that Makintach be removed from the case. Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari had filed a motion to suspend the trial to ensure the integrity of Argentina's legal process was maintained.
The allegations raise a worrying image of possible political influence in Argentina's justice system, which is often criticized as inefficient and politically influenced Britannica explained. The discussions about Makintach's impartiality have already led to lawyers from both camps classifying the situation as worrying.
The context of the procedure
The indictment targets seven health professionals accused of inadequate care before and after Maradona's death on November 25, 2020. Maradona, who died aged 60, was cared for in a rented apartment during his final days following brain surgery. His daughter Gianinna had criticized the defendants for prioritizing pay over her father's well-being. According to the allegations, the defendants could face a prison sentence of up to 25 years if convicted.
The trial began on March 11, 2025 and was scheduled to last four months. As a rule, two sessions took place per week. Criminal lawyer Adrián Tenca is also calling for the trial to be declared invalid, which could further unsettle the entire judicial landscape.
Given the developments to date, the investigation into the Maradona case remains crucial for trust in the Argentine justice system and for the survivors who demand justice for their beloved father and football star.