Buenos Aires, (EFE). — On Thursday, the two remaining judges of the court annulled the trial against seven health workers for the death of Diego Armando Maradona.
The decision followed the recusal of Judge Julieta Makintach due to her participation in a documentary about the case.
“The reasons that led to Dr. Makintach’s recusal led us to declare the nullity of this oral trial,” said Judge Maximiliano Savarino, ending the trial, which began two and a half months ago and ended after the 21st hearing.
“We consider that Dr. Makintach’s involvement renders the entire trial invalid,” he added.
Savarino highlighted “the lack of objectivity and interest in the outcome of the case” on the part of the recused judge, who, he said, “did not participate impartially in the proceedings.”
After this decision, the justice istration will have to draw lots for a new court, a process that could take months.
Savarino stated that he and Judge Verónica Di Tomasso had fulfilled their duty, but Makintach’s actions had violated the right of the parties involved to be heard by an impartial tribunal affecting the prosecution and defense.
Over 40 witnesses had already testified by the time the trial began on March 11, including the ex-football player’s daughters, Dalma, Gianinna, and Jana Maradona.
On Tuesday, the Prosecutor’s Office and the lawyers of nearly all the plaintiffs and defense attorneys requested the nullity of the trial following the dismissal of Judge Makintach.
The judge was formally recused after evidence of her participation in a documentary about the trial came to light, including the script and teaser.
The trailer showed frames of Maradona alternated with shots of Judge Makintach parading through the courtroom as music played in the background. The script included scenes of her preparing to go to court at her home.
Maradona died on Nov. 25, 2020, at 60 while under home care in Tigre, on the outskirts of Buenos Aires.
Thursday’s mistrial affecs seven of the accused: psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, neurosurgeon Leopoldo Luque, psychologist Carlos Diaz, Swiss Medical company coordinator and doctor Nancy Forlini, nurse Ricardo Almirón, and head nurse Mariano Perroni. EFE
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