Hansel García denounces alleged irregularities in INABIE tenders
Communicator Hansel García, a panelist on the show Esto No es Radio, launched severe criticisms against the National Institute of Student Welfare (INABIE) after pointing out a series of anomalies in the awarding of multi-million dollar contracts intended for school meals. According to García, there is evidence that these agreements have been granted to individuals without the experience or the necessary installed capacity to manage such a delicate service.
During his speech, the analyst raised the possibility that the young beneficiaries of these contracts may not be the true owners of the business, but could instead be acting as front men. The journalist suggests that figures with greater political or economic influence may be using third parties to hide their identity in public bidding processes.
Questions regarding the transparency of the process
García questioned the capability of the awardees, who, when asked about basic logistical details—such as food transportation—could not provide coherent answers. The communicator emphasized the disparity between these cases and other suppliers who, despite having all documentation and technical requirements up to date, were excluded from the process.
INABIE has a lot to explain to this country, because the fault does not lie with the kids who were awarded that without knowing, but with the scheme that allows this to happen while ignoring those who do meet the required standards.
Hansel García
Impact on school health
Beyond the administrative implications and the potential misuse of public funds, the journalist stressed that the central issue is the students’ food security. García recalled that the school breakfast program has historically been vulnerable, and that the lack of rigorous controls on food quality and hygiene puts the health of the most defenseless children at imminent risk.
Finally, the Alofoke Deportes panelist reiterated his call to the INABIE authorities to offer a transparent explanation regarding the criteria used in the evaluations. García insisted that it is imperative to clarify how these tenders are being approved and who are the true individuals responsible behind this scheme which, in his view, compromises institutional transparency.
