Luis Bertolini, mayor of Plottier and political ally of Governor Rolando Figueroa, is facing growing mistrust from a segment of society and local politics while trying to distance himself from scandals linked to the previous administration, where he played a key role. Despite rumors of an early departure, Bertolini defended his position, stating he is not ill and has no plans to resign. He also expressed his aspirations for re-election in 2027. He did not address concerns about his previous role as Secretary of Public Works during the controversial administration of Gloria Ruiz, who was removed on suspicion of fraud.
Legal cases involving Ruiz, which investigate controversial projects and contracts with construction companies, have directly impacted Bertolini’s environment. He insists that he was not responsible for the payment to the company and clarifies that the pool was not a public work. However, his level of political responsibility is under social review. Although he claims not to have been summoned by the court, the ongoing investigation is causing concern.
Bertolini is trying to protect himself institutionally by aligning himself with Governor Figueroa, even stating: «I feel totally aligned with the provincial government». But doubts persist, even within his own local party. Bertolini also broke with his previous party, Citizen Development, and joined Community, Figueroa’s space, citing loyalty to «values» and not to people. This move is seen by some as opportunistic to stay in power.
In addition to the shadows cast by his past as an official, Bertolini’s present is not without controversy. He proposed that only neighborhoods «willing to pay» should have access to neighborhood paving, which sparked criticism from sectors that believe this policy could deepen urban inequalities. He is pleased with a «historic work» such as the paving of Futaleufu street, but his infrastructure priorities are seen by some neighbors as arbitrary or insufficient to meet urgent needs.
His strategy of appearing transparent and cooperative with the Justice -«the municipality provided information and is available», he declared- contrasts with the lack of concrete explanations about his participation in key decisions during the previous administration. The change of municipal accountant and other administrative decisions are seen as attempts to clean up his government’s image, but they have not yet fully dispelled the climate of suspicion.