BUENOS AIRES, Nov 19, (Xinhua): Argentine judge Julieta Makintach was removed from her post on Tuesday over a scandal that led to the annulment of the trial into the death of former footballer Diego Maradona. The decision was issued unanimously by the Jury for the Impeachment of Magistrates and Officials of the Province of Buenos Aires.

The ruling also permanently bars the 48-year-old judge from holding any future judicial office. The misconduct stemmed from Makintach allowing the unauthorized filming of the documentary Justicia Divina inside the courtroom during the trial, in which she featured prominently. Prosecutor Ana Duarte accused Makintach of having "lied, pressured, manipulated," shown bias, and abused her power.

Makintach argued she had only agreed to an interview with a friend and had not authorized the production of a documentary. A new trial for Maradona's death is scheduled to begin on March 17, 2026. Eight healthcare professionals are charged with homicide in connection with the former footballer's death, and face potential prison sentences of eight to 25 years.