Bolivia minister: Guardians claimed up to 67 children for bonuses amid rural fraud

Bolivian Economy Minister José Gabriel Espinoza has revealed alarming irregularities in the distribution of government bonuses, particularly in rural areas. During a session in the Chamber of Deputies, Espinoza detailed instances of guardians claiming to be responsible for as many as 67 children to receive benefits.

"We have identified a large number of population records receiving one bonus or another that, in reality, did not exist, or double payments. Fathers who are guardians of 40, 50, or up to 67 children. Tell me, where have you ever seen a father of 67 children, all of them of school age?" Espinoza stated, emphasizing the absurdity of such claims.

To combat these fraudulent practices, the government is proposing the creation of a Social Household Registry, estimated to cost $12.5 million. Espinoza explained that the 2024 Population Census did not provide sufficient social data on households, as it prohibited income inquiries. This new registry aims to accurately identify individuals and families most in need of financial assistance, allowing for more targeted future benefit programs.

The minister did not specify the regions where these irregularities were detected, nor did he indicate whether legal actions would be taken against those who falsified information. The government is currently seeking approval from the Chamber of Deputies for a BID loan to fund existing social programs like the Renta Dignidad and Bono Pepe, though it faces significant opposition regarding the loan's allocation.

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We have identified a large number of population records receiving one bonus or another that, in reality, did not exist, or double payments. Fathers who are guardians of 40, 50, or up to 67 children. Tell me, where have you ever seen a father of 67 children, all of them of school age?