Cristina Fernández de Kirchner Receives Prison Sentence Over Corruption Ruling**

The Supreme Court of Argentina confirmed a corruption conviction against Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, imposing a six-year prison sentence that may not lead to significant jail time due to provisions for elderly offenders, amid rising political tensions.**

Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, a dominant force in Argentine politics and former president, was sentenced to prison on Tuesday as the Supreme Court upheld a corruption conviction, effectively barring her from holding public office for life. This ruling, introduced amidst rising tensions in Argentina, notably follows her attempt to stage a political comeback despite an earlier assassination attempt targeting her.

As news of the court's decision spread, supporters of Kirchner mobilized, blocking key highways in Buenos Aires. These protests highlight a country divided, as Kirchner’s left-leaning platform comes at odds with the current presidency of right-wing Javier Milei. Major labor unions also hinted at potential national strikes, reflecting the politically charged atmosphere.

The Supreme Court dismissed Kirchner's appeals and upheld the original six-year sentence from a lower court ruling that identified her as having defrauded the state during her presidency from 2007 to 2015. Yet, the 72-year-old is not expected to face substantial time in prison due to Argentine laws that typically permit house arrest for those over 70.

Even though authorities may hold her briefly at a police station, a judge will ultimately decide if she qualifies for home detention in light of her age and health considerations, as per Andrés Gil Domínguez, a constitutional law professor at the University of Buenos Aires. The ruling not only marks a significant moment in Kirchner's political trajectory but also serves as a critical juncture in Argentina's increasingly polarized political climate.