Comptroller Launches Inquiry Over Ex-Official's "Republican Only" Contracts

Chile's Comptroller General's Office has initiated an administrative investigation into a former regional health official following allegations of political favoritism in hiring. Karla Kepec Álvarez, who served as the regional secretary of health for Arica and Parinacota, was dismissed after it emerged she had sought resumes for two positions with the explicit requirement that candidates be affiliated with or children of members of the Republican Party.

The Ministry of Health ordered Kepec Álvarez's removal from her post last Thursday. Evidence presented includes a WhatsApp message where she allegedly outlined the hiring criteria. Her profile picture on the app reportedly featured a photo with President José Antonio Kast, a prominent figure in the Republican Party.

The Comptroller General's Office has formally requested information from the current regional health secretary regarding the "eventual necessity" of the two medical technologist positions Kepec Álvarez was seeking to fill. Additionally, the inquiry seeks to determine whether the email address and phone number provided by the former official are official assets of the Arica and Parinacota health authority.

This administrative sumario aims to evaluate any potential misconduct by Kepec Álvarez. The investigation underscores concerns about political influence in public sector appointments and the adherence to merit-based hiring practices within government bodies.