Chile - August 2024

Chile’s Supreme Court has initiated an investigation into one of its members, Justice Ángela Vivanco, and has suspended her from her duties. This action follows the recent leak to local media of WhatsApp chats that link her to an ongoing corruption scandal known as the “Audios Case.” The leaked communications reveal interactions between Vivanco and Luis Hermosilla, a prominent lawyer at the centre of the scandal, who is currently facing charges including money laundering, bribery of public officials, and tax fraud. The chats allegedly reveal that Vivanco sought assistance for her appointment to the Court, attempted to influence judicial nominations, and shared sensitive case information. Vivanco has 20 days to respond to these allegations. The “Audios Case,” which has already implicated various public figures and notably affected the judicial branch, raises significant concerns about corruption and transparency in Chile's judicial appointment processes, according to legal experts. In addition to the Supreme Court's investigation, constitutional charges have been brought against Vivanco in parliament, which could lead to her removal.

Sources: El Pais, Ciper Chile, CNN, La Tercera