Chilean Tribunal Closes Probe Into Failed Allende House Purchase

The Seventh Guarantee Court in Santiago has officially closed the investigation into the controversial failed purchase of former President Salvador Allende's house. This decision follows the Public Ministry's announcement that it would not pursue the case further.

The failed transaction had ignited significant public debate and led to political repercussions, including the departure of Maya Fernández from the Ministry of Defense and the loss of Isabel Allende's Senate seat. The property, located on Guardia Vieja street, was slated for acquisition by the Ministry of National Assets alongside another property belonging to former President Patricio Aylwin. The plan was to convert both into museums.

However, the operation drew criticism because Fernández and Allende were among the intended beneficiaries of the sale. Specifically, the controversy surrounding the then-senator Allende focused on constitutional prohibitions against parliamentarians entering into contracts with the state. The plaintiff's lawyer, Raimundo Palamara, expressed dismay at the investigation's closure, stating that those involved in the operation had escaped accountability.