Former Argentine President Fernández sued by ex-wife for gender-based violence while in office

Former Argentine President Alberto Fernández was sued on Tuesday by his ex-wife, Fabiola Yañez, for gender-based violence while in office, as well as harassment.

Evidence about the mistreatment was found by authorities in the context of another investigation about alleged embezzlement by the former president and some of his associates.

They came across photos and texts between a secretary of Fernández's and his then-wife, who is now living in Madrid, about violent episodes. The federal judge overseeing the embezzlement case then summoned Yañez, who initially rejected pressing charges before changing her mind and agreeing to do so.

Speaking to local outlet Infobae, Yañez's lawyer, Juan Pablo Floribello, confirmed there are text messages discussing violent episodes, although said both her and the former president rejected there was physical violence.

Asked if he had spoken with Fernández, he said he did and that the former president categorically rejected there was physical violence. "They both conceded there was a strong argument, like couples have, but that there was no violence."

However, another outlet, TN, reported that there are pictures of Yañez with a swollen eye, as well as bruises on her torso. It also reported of a video of a person, possibly Fernández, having a violent attitude toward his wife.

Fernández has yet to publicly address the lawsuit. In the meantime, the judge overseeing the original case has banned the former president from leaving the country and determined "other protective measures" aimed at preventing he gets close to his ex-wife.