During the Holy Week in 1987, a group of military officers led by the then Lieutenant Colonel Aldo Rico revolted against the constitutional government. This group of officers, who became known as the ‘carapintadas’, demanded amnesty. They laid down their arms after four days. One of the commitments of Raúl Alfonsín’s administration was to send a bill to Congress to ensure due obedience. On June 4, 1987, the act was passed (Act No. 23,521). It set forth that the members of the repressive apparatus with ranks below colonel would not be punishable for their actions during the dictatorship as they had acted in compliance with orders given, except for the crimes of robbery, rape, and the misappropriation of children. Notably, this legislation excluded former Captain Alfredo Astiz and Ernesto Barreiro from prosecution, among others, whose arrest had triggered the military uprising.
Testimony of Hugo Cañon
Testimony of Alicia Oliveira
Testimony of Julio César Strassera
Act No. 23,521 puts a limit to the prosecution of military personnel. May 13,...
“The Due Obedience Act is the result of the pressure exerted by the military ...
Declaration of the Permanent Assembly for Human Rights in view of the ruling...
Complaint against the Argentine State for breach of International Covenants a...
“Los que seguirán procesados" (The ones to remain prosecuted), with handwritt...
Madres de Plaza de Mayo Newspaper, “A los asesinos, la libertad” (Freedom to ...
Press release by Human Rights Organizations repudiating passing of the Due Ob...
Letter from the Mothers to the President and Judges of the Supreme Court disc...
Lists of military and civilian personnel dismissed from prosecution after the...
Speech by President Alfonsín following the end of the Holy Week revolt. April...