PROTESTERS ARE preparing to gather in Buenos Aires tonight in defiance of threats by newly elected Argentinian President Javier Milei of a harsh crackdown on dissent.

Just days after he took office, the far-right leader announced drastic economic measures that have angered social campaigners and trade unions.

Mr Milei’s measures, which he claimed were needed to address a severe economic crisis, include a 50 per cent devaluation of the country’s peso, cuts to energy and transport subsidies and the closure of some government ministries.

Argentina has an annual inflation rate of 161 per cent and rising poverty.

Security Minister Patricia Bullrich presented a new “protocol” in the early days of the new government to “maintain public order.”

It allows federal forces to clear people blocking streets without the need for a judicial order and authorises the police to use videos to identify individuals who are protesting and obstructing public thoroughfares.

The new protocol aims to prevent blockades, especially in Buenos Aires, where regular protests often shut down streets for hours in what are commonly known as “piquetes.”

On Monday, the government also announced that people who block streets could be removed from welfare benefit registers if they are on one.

The following day, Argentinian trade unions and campaign groups signed a petition asking the United Nations and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to intercede against the new security protocol.

Eduardo Belliboni, leader of unemployed people’s campaign group Workers Pole, warned that Mr Milei’s government planned to act “against the right to protest.”

The group is one of many involved in organising the protest in Buenos Aires.

The demonstration, marching from Congress to the historic Plaza de Mayo, is expected to begin after the Morning Star goes to press.