Former President Sparks Outrage in Argentina for Secret Meeting with Actress in Office During Term

Controversy Over Privacy Following Release of 'Sarang Gobaek' Video
Under Investigation for Partner Assault Allegations...Public Condemnation

A former Argentine president accused of assaulting his partner, who served as the first lady during his tenure, is facing criticism after a video surfaced showing him having an affair with an actress in his office.

On the 9th (local time), Argentine media outlets La Naci?n and Infobae released a video from 2021 during the pandemic, showing former President Alberto Fern?ndez (65) having a private drinking session with broadcaster and actress Tamara Pettinato (39) in the presidential office.

Alberto Fernandez, former President of Argentina
Photo by AP Yonhap News

The video, posted on La Naci?n's website and social media, is believed to have been recorded by Fern?ndez himself. The footage shows Fern?ndez confessing "I love you" to Pettinato, who is writing a "love letter," asking her to say something nice. Pettinato responds with a smile, saying, "I am the love of your life."

At the time, Fern?ndez was in a de facto marital relationship with Fabiola Ya?ez (43), who served as the first lady during his presidency. The release of this video has drawn public condemnation towards Fern?ndez.

Currently, Fern?ndez is under investigation by prosecutors for allegations of assaulting or harassing Ya?ez at the Argentine presidential residence and other locations. Local media reported the previous day, presenting photos of bruises around Ya?ez’s eye and forearm as "evidence of Fern?ndez’s assault."

Amid this, criticism is expected to intensify due to Fern?ndez’s apparent infidelity and inappropriate behavior with another woman in the presidential office.

Manuel Adorni, spokesperson for President Javier Milei’s office, condemned the video during a regular press conference broadcast live on YouTube, calling it "truly disgusting." He added, "It is shocking that such an incident occurred while people were confined at home or receiving treatment during the pandemic, and that it happened in one of the most important offices in Argentina."

He further stated regarding the assault allegations against former President Fern?ndez, "If found guilty through a clear investigation, he must face the appropriate consequences."