**Another Complaint Over Under-the-Table Contracts for La Paz Carnival**
Amid accusations of corruption concerning the Carnaval de La Paz’s preparation, the controversy has gained steam with calls for greater transparency. The Attorney Specializing in the Fight Against Corruption in Baja California Sur, Lenin Ortiz Amao, confirmed that a report was lodged against the alleged embezzlement tied to hiring the artist Chayanne. In response, opposition council members in the XVIII Ayuntamiento of La Paz have filed a formal complaint, urging the Municipal Comptroller to conduct a thorough investigation.
Javier Bustos Alvarado, a council member from the National Action Party (PAN), explained that the aim is to ensure a comprehensive review by the appropriate authorities to apply the law as necessary against those responsible for misusing public resources. Previous reports indicated that the La Paz municipality had advanced 18 million pesos to Baja Vibes Eventos & Producciones for Chayanne’s performance on February 18, in the context of the Carnival 2025 celebrations.
Javier Bustos and fellow PAN council member Blanca Pulido registered the complaint, highlighting potential crimes such as illicit use of public service, bribery, embezzlement, abuse of authority, collusion of public officials, abusive exercise of functions, influence peddling, and illegal use of powers.
“We are requesting a detailed follow-up on this case to resolve any discrepancies in the use of public funds and determine the administrative or criminal responsibilities of the officials involved,” reiterated Bustos. “Public resources should exclusively ensure the proper functioning of the municipality and not be misused.”
Bustos emphasized the citizens’ increasing concern over this matter, as expressed through social media, and stressed the need for transparent conclusions from the investigations, with restitution for the misused funds and accountability for those responsible.
Bustos acknowledged the cultural and economic benefits of hosting international events but emphasized the necessity for transparency and legal compliance in managing public funds.
**Request for Officials’ Appearance**
PAN council members Blanca Pulido, Javier Bustos, and Abraham Almendáriz Puppo, along with PRD council member Graciela Elizabeth Lucero Aguilar, requested that the Secretary-General of the City Council of La Paz, Abimael Ibarra Abúndez, facilitate a session where involved officials could appear to clarify the alleged irregularities in the contracting process of the international artist.
The request was extended to officials including Luz Esthela Morales Limón, Jehú Fernando Vázquez SavÃn, Fernando Vázquez Higuera, and Jesús Salvador Contreras GarcÃa, to present during an extraordinary council meeting to discuss all allegations associated with the issue.
**Morena Leader Calls for Investigation**
During a recent visit to Baja California Sur, the national leader of Morena, Luisa MarÃa Alcalde Luján, was asked about ongoing investigations against the municipal government in La Paz, led by Milena Quiroga Romero. Alcalde Luján urged for transparency and stressed there should be no impunity, acknowledging the importance of not prejudging the investigation results.
The municipal president has so far declined to delve into the topic, limiting responses to a press statement detailing aspects of the contract.
### **Additional News**
**Budget Shortfalls for Pensioner Bonuses**
In other local news, December 10, 2024, marked protests over unpaid bonuses for retirees, as regional administrative bodies struggle with financial balancing.
**Financial Strain in Los Cabos**
A major financial hiccup emerged in Los Cabos, with revelations of fiscal mismanagement creating budgetary gaps. This is compounding public sector challenges in the region.
**Security Measures for Year-End Celebrations**
More than 1,160 security forces have been mobilized for year-end operations, aiming to ensure a peaceful festive season for residents and tourists in the area.
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