In a recent development, Puerto Rico's new natural resources secretary has decided to shelve an investigation into allegations of illegal construction in a protected area on the island's southwest coast, causing a public outcry. The administrative order, issued after Governor Jenniffer González took office, comes amidst accusations of political persecution related to the investigation.
The probe targeted individuals, including the governor's in-laws, who were accused of unauthorized activities such as cutting mangroves and expanding a platform in a designated natural reserve at La Parguera. The area is renowned for its bioluminescent bay and was established as a protected zone in 1979.
The governor and her family members have denied the allegations, with the governor referring to the investigation as part of a political process that occurred before her party's primaries last year. The new natural resources secretary's first act was to halt the investigation and introduce measures to legalize existing homes in La Parguera through a periodic fee system.
Legal experts and environmental advocates have criticized the decision, citing concerns about setting a precedent for illegal developments and undermining environmental protections. The move to retroactively legalize constructions in a protected nature reserve has been deemed irresponsible and potentially illegal by critics.
The controversy surrounding the investigation and subsequent administrative order has sparked calls for accountability and transparency from various quarters. The Sierra Club's Puerto Rico chapter has condemned the action as a threat to environmental protection and justice, urging officials to reconsider the appointment of the natural resources secretary.
The issue of illegal constructions in La Parguera dates back several decades, with initial structures giving way to upscale homes that environmentalists argue should be removed. The investigation proposed penalties against the governor's in-laws, but the new administration's decision to halt the process has raised questions about selective prosecution and favoritism.
In response to the growing criticism, the Puerto Rico Senate has announced plans to seek clarification from the natural resources secretary regarding the administrative order. The secretary, in turn, has defended the decision as a means to resolve longstanding legal uncertainties and benefit both homeowners in La Parguera and the government.
