Anger over VIP tents and privileges at Pope Leo's Mass in Argentina

Pope Leo XIV's historic Mass in Buenos Aires' Palermo neighbourhood ignited political controversy when exclusive VIP tents and privileges were set aside for celebrities, politicians, and businessmen. Despite more than two million faithful enduring long waits in the sun, a select group of guests enjoyed additional comforts and services in reserved areas. The national government, City Hall, and event organizers now face scrutiny, with lawmakers threatening investigation into the extravagance.

Participants, volunteers, and journalists shared their experiences on social media, revealing the existence of water, food, and sun protection for the VIP guests. Meanwhile, countless laypeople, clergy, and older people spent hours exposed to high temperatures. Questions arose about the involvement of the Casa Rosada, the Argentine presidential palace, with official Mara Gorini overseeing the event's organization.

The Buenos Aires City government and production company DF Entertainment were also implicated in the controversy.

Journalist Eduardo Feinmann confirmed the presence of a VIP area with food, media personalities, and celebrities like Ana Carolina Ardohain, Valeria Mazza, and Horacio Rodríguez Larreta. However, others, including Zulemita Menem, Gabriela Michetti, and Angie Landaburu, posted photos from the VIP section, sparking outrage over the contrast between the privileged few and the underprivileged faithful.

The controversy intensified as criticisms grew, with some labeling the VIP tent as a "hypocritical playpen" for celebrities. A volunteer lamented the disparity between the treatment of those providing volunteer labor and the VIP guests, who were seated three meters away from the Pope while volunteers had to stand behind fencing 2.3 kilometers from the altar. The contrast between the privileged few and the underprivileged faithful fueled the public outcry, revealing deeper issues in the event's organization and priorities.