Argentina President Javier Milei’s Cabinet chief resigns amid corruption scandal

Argentine President Javier Milei’s Cabinet chief and close ally Manuel Adorni resigned on Saturday following a corruption controversy that has shaken the libertarian government and raised questions over its promise to eliminate corruption among the political elite.

Adorni, who previously served as Milei’s spokesperson and became one of the most visible faces of the president’s austerity agenda and anti-graft campaign, leaves office as one of Milei’s most trusted advisers.

The former Cabinet chief faced mounting criticism after reports about his personal spending, property purchases and luxury travel drew public attention. Milei appointed Adorni as Cabinet chief last year, giving him a key role in managing negotiations with governors and lawmakers in Congress.

Federal prosecutors are investigating Adorni over allegations of illicit enrichment linked to financial activities that critics say contradict the anti-corruption principles promoted by Milei’s administration. Adorni has denied any wrongdoing.

In his resignation letter shared on social media, Adorni thanked Milei for his support but said he was stepping down after a difficult period for him and his family.

Milei has continued to defend his ally, saying Adorni is innocent and that he would support his ministers until the end. The scandal, however, has damaged the government’s image and complicated efforts to defend its spending cuts as many Argentines struggle with the impact of inflation.

Milei’s sister and senior adviser Karina Milei praised Adorni’s work, calling him a valuable and respected member of the ruling libertarian movement.

The controversy intensified after reports highlighted Adorni’s luxury trips, including travel on a presidential aircraft, private jet trips to Uruguay’s Punta del Este resort, and purchases of properties in Buenos Aires and outside the capital.

Adorni later acknowledged buying US dollars through Argentina’s informal market and failing to declare around $500,000 in savings to tax authorities, though he said the money was legally earned through sources including cryptocurrency investments.

The government has not yet announced who will replace Adorni as Cabinet chief.