Argentina Shuts Down Che Guevara Museum, Labeling It as a "Terrorist's Life Exhibit"

The Argentine government has decided to close a museum dedicated to Ernesto "Che" Guevara, located in San Martín de los Andes within the Lanín National Park. This museum was operated by the State Workers' Association (ATE) under an agreement established during Cristina Fernández's administration.

Government spokesperson Manuel Adorni announced that the National Parks Administration has terminated the contract with the union group, which had been in place since 2008 to manage the La Pastera building. Adorni stated, "Instead of fulfilling its purpose of reopening this cultural space recognized as a historical asset, ATE transformed the property into a museum glorifying Che Guevara."

"Some of the museum's highlighted activities included the presentation of the book 'Mundo Che' in Havana and visits from university students," he added.

The official from Milei's administration criticized the agreement as illegal, accusing it of using state resources to celebrate the life of someone he referred to as a "terrorist" with multimedia exhibits. "Upholding the resources of all Argentinians is a fundamental principle of our government under President Milei," he emphasized, describing the closure as a necessary step amidst "such madness."

Che Guevara remains a controversial figure, often manipulated by Cuban state propaganda and others who romanticize communism, attempting to position him as a symbol of the Cuban "revolution" and social struggles. Originally an Argentine doctor and guerrilla fighter, Guevara allied with Fidel Castro and played a key role in the latter's rise to power in 1959. Within the Cuban regime, he held significant positions, such as President of the National Bank and Minister of Industry. Later, he sought to spread guerrilla warfare to other nations, engaging in operations in the Congo and Bolivia, where he was ultimately captured and executed.

During the initial year of the Cuban Revolution, Guevara oversaw summary executions at La Cabaña fortress, where hundreds were executed, often without fair trials or armed resistance. This earned him the moniker "The Butcher of La Cabaña" among some Cubans. In public speeches, including at the United Nations Assembly in 1964, Guevara justified these executions, declaring, "We have executed, we execute, and we will continue to execute as long as necessary," demonstrating an unyielding stance against his political adversaries.