Argentine priests defend Pope Francis over 'shameful' Milei attacks

BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) – Priests from impoverished districts in Buenos Aires organized a mass on Tuesday to show support for Argentine Pope Francis after radical right-wing presidential candidate Javier Milei insulted him as an “imbecile” and “representative of evil”.

Milei, an outsider libertarian economist, is currently leading in the polls for the October 22 general election. His bold criticism of political rivals has resonated with many voters who are angered by the 113% inflation causing a cost of living crisis.

The former media ‘shock jock’ commentator has launched a series of attacks on the pope, referring to him as an “imbecile who defends social justice,” a “son of a b**** preaching communism,” and “the representative of the evil one on Earth.”

Buenos Aires priest Lorenzo “Toto” De Vedia, commenting on Milei’s insults towards Pope Francis, stated, “He has called Pope Francis insults like an imbecile and worse things.” De Vedia highlighted that these insults have gained more attention as Milei’s popularity continues to grow.

“That is why we are having this mass today,” De Vedia added.

A spokesperson for Milei declined to comment on Tuesday.

Pope Francis, 87, lived a modest life when he was Archbishop of Buenos Aires, often commuting by public transport and maintaining a low profile when assisting deprived neighborhoods in the city. Such conduct earned him the nickname “Pope of the slums.”

Priest José María “Pepe” Di Paola expressed his discontent during the mass, saying, “It is shameful for a candidate to say these things. To say that social justice is bullshit, excuse my language, when justice starts from the gospel.”

Some church attendees held photos of the pontiff in their hands as a sign of support.

Pope Francis, who has not returned to his homeland since taking office 10 years ago partially due to political tensions in the country, has indicated that he may visit in 2024. However, it remains unknown whether he would still do so if Milei were to become president.

Argentina is grappling with triple-digit inflation, a 40% poverty rate, and a constantly devaluing currency. This severe economic crisis has fueled anger towards conventional politics and contributed to the rise of Milei, who received 30% of the votes in the August primary election.

(Reporting by Lucila Sigal; Additional reporting by Miguel Lo Bianco; Writing by Anna-Catherine Brigida, Editing by William Maclean)