PROSECUTORS in Argentina have formally accused former president Alberto Fernandez of irregularities in contracting insurance for the public sector during his administration.

Federal Judge Sebastian Casanello, however, ruled on Thursday that Mr Fernandez can remain free while the case against the left-wing leader former proceeds.

This is the second case brought against Mr Fernandez since he left office, but the first related to alleged corruption.

Earlier this year, he was charged with committing gender violence against former first lady Fabiola Yanez.

In the insurance case, prosecutors are charging Mr Fernandez with carrying out negotiations incompatible with holding public office, which could carry a sentence of between one and six years in prison.

Mr Casanello also ordered the freezing of some $11 million (around £8m) of Mr Fernandez’s assets.

The judge noted in his order that, in December 2021, in the middle of his presidency, Mr Fernandez issued a decree that forced the entire public sector to contract exclusively with Nacion Seguros, an insurance company then led by his friend Alberto Pagliano. 

It resulted in tremendous growth for the company.

Mr Fernandez did not immediately comment on the case, in which 33 other people are also named.