An Argentinian federal appeals court confirmed on Wednesday the guilty verdict and six-year prison sentence for former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, a prominent political leader, and recent vice president, Reuters reported.
Kirchner led Argentina as president from 2007 to 2015 and then as vice president from 2019 to 2023. In the trial, she faced charges of defrauding the state through public works contracts during her presidency.
The legal battle continues as Kirchner plans to appeal the verdict to Argentina’s Supreme Court.
Despite the conviction, she remains a central figure in Argentina’s political landscape. Recently, Kirchner accepted a nomination to lead the Justicialist Party, the Peronist opposition faction, after former President Alberto Fernandez lost his position due to allegations of abuse against the first lady.
Kirchner’s official leadership role with the Justicialist Party will begin on November 17.
In 2022, Kirchner survived an assassination attempt that triggered widespread public demonstrations in her support.
Kirchner’s political future, however, may face new hurdles. The nation’s Congress is considering a bill that would bar individuals convicted of corruption from holding public office.
If lawmakers pass the bill, it could sideline Kirchner and other politicians convicted of similar charges from future elections. Argentina’s next legislative elections are slated for 2025.