The former director of Ifarhu, Bernardo Meneses, will remain in provisional detention while the investigation into illicit enrichment continues. His defense had requested changing the measure to house arrest, but a guarantees judge rejected it, citing procedural risks and the seriousness of the case. The decision was made during a hearing where it was also evaluated that the elements of the case have been strengthened and that there is still a risk that evidence could be affected. The Public Ministry was represented by anti-corruption prosecutor Azucena Aisprúa, while his defense is led by lawyer Ángel Álvarez. The case originated from an audit by the Comptroller's Office that detected irregularities in the management of Ifarhu between 2019 and 2024. In addition to the investigation into illicit enrichment, Meneses also faces questions about alleged failures in the delivery of economic aid during his administration. Despite being detained, Meneses decided to run for the position of second vice president of the National Executive Committee of the PRD, generating divided opinions within the party and among citizens, while an appeal hearing scheduled for January is awaited.
