Chilean Supreme Court reviews removal of judges accused of traveling on medical leave

The Supreme Court of Chile has begun an extraordinary review of 58 removal proceedings against members of the primary judicial echelon, including appellate court ministers, rapporteurs, and judges. The cases involve allegations that these officials traveled abroad while on medical leave.

The review process involves successive hearings where lawyers and the judges themselves may present arguments. The Supreme Court Secretary, Jorge Saez Martin, confirmed that the proceedings are expected to continue through at least Friday, with the possibility of extending into the following week.

Currently, six cases are suspended following requests from the Constitutional Court (TC). The affected magistrates include Jorge Saavedra, Katrina Chahín, Macarena Bobadilla, Juan Manuel Gatica, Erna Fuentes, and Eduardo Fritz. The Supreme Court will proceed with the remaining 52 to 53 cases individually, with final votes to be cast once all scheduled hearings are completed.