Chilean President Gabriel Boric has firmly denied allegations of sexual harassment from over a decade ago, as a criminal case has been opened against him. His attorney stated that the complaint lacks merit, claiming unsolicited communications were sent to Boric by his accuser. This situation unfolds amidst a separate scandal involving a former deputy minister, adding further complexity to Boric’s presidency.
Santiago: Chilean President Gabriel Boric has faced accusations of sexual harassment stemming from an alleged incident over a decade ago, which he has firmly denied through his legal counsel. Attorney Jonatan Valenzuela stated, “The president … rejects and categorically denies the complaint,” referring to an event purportedly occurring in 2013. The complaint was lodged on September 6 at the Magallanes prosecutor’s office, located in the southern region of Chile that Boric represents.
Cristian Crisosto, the chief of the Magallanes prosecutor’s office, confirmed the registration of a criminal case concerning the claims, indicating that a specialized investigative team is addressing the matter. According to Mr. Valenzuela, the accuser had previously sent Boric a series of 25 unwanted emails, including one featuring explicit content. He asserted that the woman’s claims, brought forth more than ten years later, lack any credible basis against President Boric.
At the time of the alleged incident, Boric was 27 years old, having recently completed his law degree. Mr. Valenzuela emphasized that Boric had no emotional or friendly ties with the complainant, as they have not communicated since July 2014. Compounding matters, Boric’s administration is also facing scrutiny due to a separate scandal involving former deputy interior minister Manuel Monsalve, who was arrested for alleged sexual assault against a subordinate. Notably, Boric, who is unable to pursue reelection after his term concludes in 2026, possesses special immunity that necessitates an impeachment trial prior to any formal investigation.
The topic of sexual harassment within political circles remains highly contentious, particularly in Latin America, where allegations can lead to significant political ramifications. In this instance, President Gabriel Boric, who assumed office with a focus on progressive reforms, now confronts accusations that threaten to tarnish his administration’s image. The recent complaint aligns with broader concerns surrounding misogyny and safeguarding victims’ rights, fueling public discourse on accountability among political leaders. This comes at a time when Boric’s government is also dealing with another serious scandal, emphasizing the complexities politicians face when navigating public trust and personal allegations.
In summary, Chilean President Gabriel Boric has responded strongly to sexual harassment allegations, asserting his innocence through legal representation. The accusations have prompted an official investigation, revealing the challenges facing public figures in maintaining their reputations amid serious allegations. With the additional pressure of another ongoing scandal, Boric’s administration is at a critical junction that may influence his governance and party’s future in Chilean politics.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
