The announcement came on Friday at the opening ceremony of the 142nd session of Congress, where President Milei lashed out against opponents, businessmen, trade unionists, political and social groups. In a joint statement, FATPREN, Buenos Aires Press Union and the Trade Union Commission Somos Télam criticized Milei´s decision and accused him of acting against the right to communication.

They also pointed out that, during his (Milei) speech, he used the national TV network to broadcast only “footage of officials, lawmakers and pro-government public, proving the journalistic monopoly he intends for the country”.

We ratify our commitment to defend Télam, each public media and all state-owned companies. We will protect both its social role in democracy and workers.

Télam proves its quality and professionalism with its daily service. Shutting down would not only be illegal, but also illegitimate. It would be an attack on pluralism and federalism.

On the other hand, the document warned about the President’s interest in subjugating unions, labor rights, communication rights, the right to strike and protest.

We will support our positions and actions, as we have done since the inauguration of the government of La Libertad Avanza and ahead of all measures taken in the last 82 days.

With participation, organization, unity and struggle we will defend labor, union rights, public media, sovereignty and democracy.

Created on April 14, 1945, Télam has more than 700 employees and is the only national news agency with a network of correspondents across all provinces.

According to its official website, Télam has faced liquidation attempts, closures, layoffs or cutbacks during the terms of office of Carlos Menem, Fernando de la Rúa and Mauricio Macri.

It broadcasts over 500 news per day, at least 200 photographs, and has video departments, a news website and social networks.

FATPREN Secretary-General Carla Gauensi, on the other side, stated that “Télam will not be closed.

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