25,000 Chilean Officials on Medical Leave Traveled Abroad: Misuse of State Funds?

Thousands of Chilean Public Officials on Medical Leave Traveled Abroad, Raising Concerns about Misuse of State Funds. Santiago, Chile – A recent audit by Chile's Contraloría revealed a staggering statistic: more than 25,000 public officials took international trips while on medical leave. This discovery has sparked widespread concern about the misuse of state resources and the effectiveness of current oversight mechanisms. In an interview with ADN Radio, Javiera Martínez, Director of the Chilean Budget, stated, “There is a misuse of state resources.” Martínez further highlighted the difficulties in initiating dismissal proceedings against officials who accumulate more than 180 days of medical leave within a two-year period. The lengthy process, involving the Comptroller's office and the health service, often delays accountability. The government is now exploring legislative changes to streamline this process and ensure quicker resolution of such cases. This incident underscores the need for greater transparency and stricter regulations in the management of public funds and employee leave policies.