The Argentine court overseeing the trial of the medical team responsible for the care of the late football icon Diego Maradona has postponed proceedings for a week. This decision arose from concerns regarding the impartiality of the presiding judge.
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Defense attorneys raised questions about Judge Julieta Makintach’s involvement in a documentary related to the case, suggesting it could indicate a violation of her duty to remain unbiased, as well as possible implications of influence and bribery. As Prosecutor Patricio Ferrari noted, “The pause was ordered to address a matter of institutional gravity.”
In light of these concerns, two defense attorneys have requested that Judge Makintach be recused from the trial, which has been underway for the past two months.
A banner of Diego Maradona is seen as family members testified in court last week.
The prosecutor’s office is now tasked with investigating whether any breaches occurred in this matter, and they will assess Judge Makintach’s possible involvement. During court proceedings, Judge Makintach expressed, “I can understand the concerns of all parties involved. However, I firmly believe in my impartiality.” She also acknowledged her willingness to consider recusing herself if doubts persist.
The presiding judge, Maximiliano Savarino, has indicated that the trial is expected to resume on May 27.
A Troubling Legacy of Care
Diego Maradona passed away on November 25, 2020, at the age of 60, while recovering at home from brain surgery intended to address a blood clot. His life had been marred by longstanding battles with substance abuse, including cocaine and alcohol addiction. Maradona’s death was attributed to heart failure and acute pulmonary edema, occurring just two weeks after his surgery, and he was found deceased by his day nurse.
The seven-member medical team facing trial in the Buenos Aires suburb of San Isidro is scrutinized for their management of Maradona’s recovery at home rather than in a medical facility. Prosecutors have characterized the level of care provided during Maradona’s final days as grossly negligent.
If convicted of “homicide with possible intent,” the defendants could face prison sentences ranging from eight to 25 years, depending on the findings of the court.
Central to the case is the medical team’s decision to allow Maradona’s recuperation at home, where he received minimal oversight and medical equipment. During recent testimony, Maradona’s daughter, Gianinna, criticized the conditions in which her father lived, describing it as “a dark, ugly, and lonely” environment, and expressed her belief that his caretakers were more focused on financial gain than on his wellbeing.
Thus far, only one of the defendants, Maradona’s psychiatrist, has taken the stand. The passing of this World Cup star plunged Argentina into deep mourning, particularly against the backdrop of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Tens of thousands of citizens paid their respects as Maradona’s body lay in state at the presidential palace, a testament to his enduring legacy.
“In life, he was a genius; in death, he remains a symbol of our spirit,” remarked one mourner, encapsulating the profound impact Maradona had on Argentina.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
