Recent developments have placed Natalia Duco, the Minister of Sports, under scrutiny following allegations regarding her use of a government vehicle for a personal event. The National Audit Office (Contraloría) is currently investigating a complaint which states that Duco utilized her official vehicle to attend a party—an action that violates regulations prohibiting authorities from using state vehicles for private matters. This revelation has sparked public interest and raised questions about ethical conduct in government.
In the latest report by La Tercera, further details of the controversial gathering on April 23rd have emerged. It was revealed that the party was a barbecue and karaoke celebration organized by officials from the Ministry of Sports to commemorate a month and a half since they assumed their roles. An invitation was circulated via WhatsApp, and the gathering took place at a private residence located on Camino El Canal, in the affluent area of Lo Curro, Vitacura. A video captured at the event shows attendees, including Minister Duco, singing the song «Sirena» by the popular duo Sin Bandera, surrounded by numerous bottles of alcoholic beverages.
In response to the ongoing investigation, the ministry defended itself by asserting that the Minister was attending a «working meeting» on that evening. Officials claimed that Duco’s presence at the gathering was part of a professional obligation relating to discussions held with ministerial cabinets at the home of a former contracted employee of the ministry. They maintained that her attendance did not constitute a breach of the law, despite the visual evidence presented.
However, the video evidence released by La Tercera contradicts the official statements made by the ministry, raising doubts about the veracity of their claims. The sight of the Minister participating in a social event while purportedly on duty creates a serious image problem for her administration. Additionally, it casts a shadow on the ethical standards expected from public servants, particularly those holding significant governmental positions.
Given the seriousness of the allegations, it is imperative for Minister Duco to clarify the circumstances surrounding her attendance at the party and the use of the official vehicle. The situation has not only attracted media attention but also criticism from various political figures and the public, overshadowing her work as Minister of Sports. As the investigation by the Contraloría proceeds, the implications of these revelations could have lasting effects on her career and the credibility of her ministry.
