Cathy Barriga, the Former Mayor of Maipú: A Story of Controversy

Early Life and Career

Cathy Barriga Guerra was born on February 10, 1974, in Santiago, Chile. She studied law at the University of Chile and worked as a lawyer before entering politics.

Barriga began her political career as a councilor for the Maipú commune in 2004. She was elected mayor of Maipú in 2016, becoming the first female mayor in the commune's history.

Controversy and Legal Troubles

Barriga's tenure as mayor was marked by controversy. She faced criticism for her lavish spending, use of public funds for personal gain, and authoritarian leadership style.

In 2021, Barriga was charged with embezzlement, fraud, and tax evasion. She was removed from office and placed under house arrest. The trial is ongoing.

Lavish Spending and Misuse of Public Funds

Barriga was accused of spending excessive amounts of public funds on personal expenses, such as travel, clothing, and makeup.
She also allegedly used public resources for personal events, such as her birthday party and her daughter's wedding.

Authoritarian Leadership Style

Barriga was known for her authoritarian leadership style, which included silencing critics and limiting transparency.
She allegedly threatened and intimidated employees who disagreed with her.

Political Legacy

Cathy Barriga's political legacy is mixed. Some residents of Maipú praised her for her charisma and willingness to listen to concerns. However, her controversial tenure and legal troubles have overshadowed her accomplishments.

Barriga's case has highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in local government. It has also raised questions about the role of social media in politics.

Cathy Barriga The Former Mayor Of Maipu A Story Of Controversy