Government conditions delivery of aid to victim of the Interoceanic Train: 'It is not correct'
Juan Manuel Iglesias, a victim of the Interoceanic Train derailment, claims the federal government is conditioning his compensation on withdrawing his complaint and renouncing his legal representation.
Juan Manuel Iglesias, who suffered injuries in the derailment of the Interoceanic Train that resulted in 14 fatalities and over 100 injuries, has publicly denounced that the federal government is imposing conditions on the compensation he and his family are entitled to. He reported that the National Victims Commission offered him slightly more than 1 million pesos as reparations but insisted that he withdraw his legal complaint and dismiss his attorneys to facilitate the payment. This approach raises ethical concerns regarding the treatment of victims in such high-stakes situations, where legal representation is often crucial for ensuring rights and fair compensation.
During a meeting called by the Victims Attention Commission, Iglesias expressed his discontent with the condition to sideline his legal team, stating, "It's not correct." This highlights a potential power imbalance between victims seeking justice and the state apparatus, which should ideally work in support of the victims, not against them. The incident challenges the government's commitment to uphold victim rights and underscores the necessity for transparent and fair processes when addressing compensations following tragedies.
Iglesias further sought clarification on his status and the investigation into the incident at the Attorney General's Office, where he faced additional victimization by being required to appear in person to access the investigation files instead of having his lawyers manage this process. His legal representative indicated they are prepared to escalate the matter as necessary, illustrating a determined response amid complexities of navigating legal obligations and victim rights in the aftermath of such a disaster.