Argentine Opposition Leader Hernan Damiani collapses and dies on Live TV, Video captures breathing trouble, distress

In a shocking turn of events, Argentine opposition leader and former congressman Hernan Damiani passed away on Thursday after suffering a heart attack during a live televised debate. The 63-year-old politician, a prominent member of the Unión Cívica Radical (UCR), collapsed just minutes into the program, prompting immediate efforts from fellow panelists and hosts to assist him, as mentioned in a report by Ynet News.

Eyewitnesses reported that Damiani appeared to experience difficulty breathing before losing consciousness. Video footage from the broadcast showed a fellow guest grabbing his arm as he collapsed. The program, titled Dólar Blue, swiftly called for medical assistance. Former Health Minister Walter Villalba attempted resuscitation until paramedics arrived. Damiani was rushed to Madariaga Hospital in Posadas, where he was pronounced dead.

Following the tragedy, Damiani’s body was displayed at the UCR headquarters in Posadas, allowing the public to pay their respects. Political leaders, colleagues, and citizens expressed deep sorrow over his sudden demise.

Political Career of Hernan Damiani

Damiani, a seasoned politician, had a long-standing association with the Unión Cívica Radical (UCR). His career spanned decades, including a tenure in the National Congress beginning in 2001, where he chaired the Criminal Legislation Committee. He also served in the Misiones Province legislature and later became the UCR’s provincial president.

In recent years, Damiani had joined a parliamentary election slate alongside Gustavo González, Guadalupe Kolodziej, and Nicolás Godoy, with elections scheduled in just 10 days.

In a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), the UCR wrote, “With sorrow, we bid farewell to a great activist and leader from Misiones, Hernan Damiani. He passed away yesterday while defending his ideas in a debate. He was a provincial legislator and national deputy, with significant prominence in opposing the attacks of Menemism in the 90s. We stand with his family and friends.”

Argentine leader Hernan Damiani: Tributes Pour In

The sudden passing of the Argentine leader triggered an outpouring of tributes from politicians and peers.

• Senator Víctor Zimmermann said, “I deeply regret the passing of our party colleague, Hernán Damiani. I stand with his family and friends in this painful time.”
  
• Misiones Governor Hugo Passalacqua wrote on social media, “In deep shock and sorrow, I received the unexpected news of Hernán Damiani’s passing. I honor his career, his commitment, and his strong principles. I send heartfelt condolences to his family. I will always remember the sincere friendship and mutual respect we shared.”
  

Damiani was widely recognised for his principled political stance and his contributions to opposing Menemism in the 1990s, earning respect across party lines.

FAQs

Who was Hernan Damiani?

Hernan Damiani was a veteran Argentine opposition leader and former congressman with the Unión Cívica Radical (UCR). He also served in the Misiones Province legislature and chaired the Criminal Legislation Committee in the National Congress.

How did Damiani die?

He suffered a heart attack during a live television debate and was pronounced dead after being rushed to Madariaga Hospital in Posadas.