Argentina’s president back to work following cancer scare

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Argentina’s president joked about her cancer scare Wednesday, then responded harshly to the British prime minister’s claims that her government has “colonialist” aims on the Falkland Islands.

Returning to work after what proved to be a false cancer diagnosis that prompted doctors to remove her thyroid, Cristina Fernandez showed off her scar during an address that was broadcast nationwide.

Questions raised by the newspaper Clarin about her diagnosis and operation had prompted Fernandez to release her medical records.

“I was going to come with a handkerchief because it doesn’t look very aesthetic,” she said, referring to a deep crease just above her collarbone.

“But I thought, if I cover it up with a handkerchief, tomorrow Clarin will say, ‘This woman wasn’t operated on,’ ”she joked. “You all know that aesthetics are very important to me, but I told myself, ‘Sweetie, politics before style.’ ”

Fernandez’s last public appearance had been Dec. 28, the day after her office announced the cancer diagnosis. Doctors removed the entire gland Jan. 4. Tests then showed the growths were benign.

Fernandez directed much of her discourse at British Prime Minister David Cameron, who angered Argentines by accusing them of having “colonialist” attitudes toward the Falklands.

“One is always tempted to respond, but I think it’s better to avoid it. When they say these things it’s exactly because they don’t have reasons or arguments,” she said.