A member of the Republican Party has filed a formal complaint with the Regional Electoral Tribunal of Los Ríos, alleging significant irregularities in the formation of the party'und regional leadership.
Armin Contreras, a party member, submitted the claim to challenge the legitimacy of recent appointments. He alleges that the process lacked proper elections and involved individuals acting without legal authority.
The dispute follows the departure of former regional president Oriet Montecinos, who vacated her position after being appointed as the regional minister (seremi) of Women by the government. Paulina Hernández assumed leadership following Montecinos' exit.
Contreras' legal filing alleges "vices of nullity" regarding the constitution of the party's regional representatives. He claims that no elections were held to form the new regional board.
Allegations of de facto leadership
The complaint further asserts that certain individuals are exercising political functions without a formal mandate ratified by the Electoral Service (Servel). Contreras argues these leaders are acting "de facto," making administrative and political decisions without legal standing.
This lack of formal process, according to the filing, violates the party's principles of internal democracy. The legal action seeks to nullify any appointments that fail to meet legal requirements and demands that the party immediately call for new elections.
In a written statement, the Republican Party denied the allegations of misconduct. The party maintains that all recent changes and designations comply with the organization's statutes and current internal processes.
Party officials stated that the claims ignore the transitional mechanisms and specific powers allowed to ensure the proper organization of the political group. They denied that any legal nullity exists in the current leadership structure.
Contreras is also seeking sanctions against those responsible if the tribunal finds the process violated established rules. The Regional Electoral Tribunal is now tasked with reviewing the legal status of the party's regional board formation.
