The candidacy of socialist Andrónico Rodríguez faces a new setback in the final stretch. His star advisor, Spaniard Antoni Gutiérrez-Rubí, left the country without official notice. The news was partially confirmed by his spokesperson Félix Ajpi, who said he didn't have precise information.
Ajpi also stated that the advisor "surely must have withdrawn" because he wasn't paid. Gutiérrez's contract was valued at 300,000 dollars.
Rodríguez, in a recent interview, tried to justify the million-dollar amount. He said that Gutiérrez-Rubí "doesn't charge even half a million", but he couldn't specify the actual figure.
He couldn't explain the origin of the money that will be used to pay him either. He promised that the campaign would be transparent, but he didn't present any documents. The lack of clarity increased the controversy.
Félix Ajpi tried to calm the crisis with a confusing version. He said that Gutiérrez wasn't an advisor, but only "a collaborator." He claimed that the situation is being exaggerated as if it were a crime.
He also revealed that the advisor still hasn't received a single cent. "At some point, he'll be paid," he stated without giving a date.
The senator also compared the case to that of a player who leaves due to lack of payment. He indicated that Alianza Popular only covers the Spaniard's stay, hotel, and meals.
The funds, according to him, come from contributions by the legislative candidates. He insisted that there is no dark financing in the campaign. He assured that they will provide an accounting after the elections.
Criticism of the million-dollar contract
The opposition didn't remain silent in the face of the scandal. Congressman Renán Cabezas described the million-dollar payment to the foreigner as "suspicious". He questioned the silence regarding Alianza Popular's financial movements.
Additionally, the opposition pointed out that Rodríguez has already been reported for the use of small planes and helicopters. They believe that behind the spending there may be money of dubious origin.
Another person who called for an investigation was Anyelo Céspedes. The legislator reported that there is no transparency in the campaign expenses. He confirmed that in July he requested an audit of the accounts from the Electoral Body.
He suspects that Rodríguez may be engaging in illicit financing. He called for sanctions if any irregularity is proven.
