Tax waiver linked to alleged bribery in Senasa case
Prosecutor Aurelio Valdez Alcántara, who was under investigation for allegedly receiving a US$10,000 bribe related to irregularities at the National Health Insurance (Senasa), has formalized his resignation from the Public Ministry. The information was confirmed by his legal representative, lawyer Valentín Medrano.
This decision marks a turning point in the judicial process, as, upon leaving his position, the former official loses the privileged jurisdiction granted by his office. Consequently, the case will be transferred to the ordinary jurisdiction to continue its legal course.
Current status of the judicial process
Currently, Valdez Alcántara is serving a coercive measure consisting of three months of pretrial detention at the Najayo Men’s Correction and Rehabilitation Center. This measure was initially ordered by Judge Isis Muñiz, in her capacity as special investigating judge of the Second Criminal Chamber of the Court of Appeals of the National District.
Following the resignation, the First Instruction Court of the National District, led by Judge Patricia Padilla, has assumed control of the proceedings. This court will be responsible for leading the preparatory stage and presiding over the preliminary hearing, scheduled for next October, where it will be determined if there is sufficient evidence to elevate the case to a full trial.
Research details
The Public Prosecutor’s Office bases its accusation on the alleged receipt of US$10,000 in cash by witness Roberto Canaán, who is linked to the investigations into the Senasa case. According to the file, Valdez Alcántara allegedly used his influence and connections within the judicial system to attempt to manipulate the progress of the inquiries.
The defense, led by lawyers Albert Delgado and Valentín Medrano, has questioned the integrity of the procedures carried out during the investigation phase, arguing that fundamental rights and procedural rules regarding the treatment of public officials with privileged jurisdiction have been violated.
With this change of jurisdiction, Alofoke Deportes will provide continuous follow-up on upcoming hearings to report on the progress of this judicial process, which has captured public attention due to the seriousness of the accusations against a member of the justice system.
