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BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) \u2014 Prosecutors in Argentina formally accused former President Alberto Fern\u00e1ndez<\/a> of irregularities in contracting insurance for the public sector during his administration Thursday.<\/p>\n Federal Judge Sebasti\u00e1n Casanello, however, allowed Fern\u00e1ndez to remain free while the case against the former leftist leader proceeds.<\/p>\n It\u2019s the second case brought against Fern\u00e1ndez since he left office, but the first related to alleged corruption. Earlier this year, he was charged with committing gender violence<\/a> against former first lady Fabiola Y\u00e1\u00f1ez.<\/p>\n In the insurance case, prosecutors are charging Fern\u00e1ndez with carrying out negotiations incompatible with holding public office, which could carry a sentence of one to six years of prison.<\/p>\n Casanello also ordered a freeze on some $11 million of Fern\u00e1ndez\u2019s assets.<\/p>\n The judge noted in his order that in December 2021, in the middle of his presidency, Fern\u00e1ndez issued a decree that forced the entire public sector to contract exclusively with Naci\u00f3n Seguros S.A., an insurance company then led by Alberto Pagliano, a friend of Fern\u00e1ndez.<\/p>\n It resulted in a boon and tremendous growth for the company.<\/p>\n Fern\u00e1ndez did not immediately comment on the case.<\/p>\n Some 33 other people are also named in the case.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n