Costa Rica’s public prosecutor’s office investigates President Rodrigo Chaves for influence peddling
The Prosecution Office of Costa Rica has initiated an investigation into President Rodrigo Chaves and several government members over alleged influence trafficking.
The investigation comes after businessman Leonel Baruch filed a complaint.
Baruch’s complaint centers on a legal dispute with his ex-wife, Yafit Ohana, over the custody of their children.
He claims that Chaves and other government officials intervened in the process to favor Ohana.
Among those mentioned are the Minister of Communication, Jorge Rodríguez, and the National Institute of Women president, Adilia Caravaca.
The complainant asserts that Ohana received preferential treatment in a social media video used by the Minister of Finance, Nogui Acosta, to accuse him of tax evasion falsely.
The accusation also includes alleged pressure on former Minister of Children Gloriana López, to rule in favor of Ohana in the custody dispute.
Influence trafficking carries a penalty of two to five years in prison, which can be increased by up to a third if committed by public officials.
This marks the second investigation into President Chaves, with a previous inquiry in July regarding alleged abuse of power.
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