After the national government accused ex President Eduardo Duhalde of advocating police repression during his administration, the former head of state defended his stance during "such a difficult moment in history," and assured he knew "how to bring peace and order to a country."

Mr. Duhalde strongly rejected statements coming from several members in the national government, who accused him of orchestrating the violent incidents involving the squatter families and residents in the Villa Soldati area.

He said it the comments were made due to his decision to run for president next year.

"Argentina needs order," he said, and commented on his performance in the government during his administration in 2002 and 2003.

"I was never violent. I am proud to say that I had to govern during one of Argentina's most difficult times and there wasn't even one injured person," he stated.