Córdoba's Audit Court has paused a multimillion-dollar tender for security drones for the provincial police, sparking a political clash between the ruling party and opposition. The decision highlights demands for greater transparency in the procurement process, which involved unmanned aircraft equipped with facial recognition and license plate software. Governor Martín Llaryora accused opponents of political obstruction, while Senator Luis Juez alleged irregularities and corruption.
Córdoba's Provincial Audit Court has halted a tender for purchasing drones intended for the police, valued at several million pesos. Details obtained by Perfil Córdoba reveal the acquisition included long- and short-range unmanned aircraft, along with software for facial recognition and vehicle license plate identification. The pause stems from concerns over transparency in the procurement process.
The rejection has ignited a sharp political confrontation. The ruling party, led by Governor Martín Llaryora, accused the opposition—particularly Córdoba's 'libertarians'—of political obstruction. Llaryora sharply criticized these groups for blocking security initiatives.
In response, national Senator Luis Juez from the juecismo faction welcomed the court's decision, labeling the tender as 'tailor-made.' 'We are in favor of security, but with transparency,' stated a juecista leader. Juez escalated the rhetoric by alleging 'corruption' in the process, contending that the opposition aims to ensure proper oversight of public spending.
This dispute unfolds amid local political tensions, with the Audit Court stressing the need for auditing to prevent irregularities. The tender remains on hold pending a review of procedures, potentially delaying the deployment of these surveillance tools in the province.
The debate underscores tensions between public security needs and accountability in provincial fund usage, with mutual accusations unresolved.
