Franco Vidal Takes on Mávila Huertas: A Legal Battle Over Claims of Extortion
In a dramatic announcement made during one of his live broadcasts on Kick, the mayor of Ate, Franco Vidal, declared his intent to file legal action against journalist Mávila Huertas. The conflict stems from Huertas labeling him an “extortionist” in her show, It Happens Now. This accusation has ignited a war of words, with both parties entrenched in their positions.
“I want you to try it in court. There we will see our face. It shows that I am an extortionist. This hate and evil campaign is enough,” Vidal passionately remarked during his stream. The high tension of this confrontation highlights the escalating stakes surrounding public figures and media ethics.
The heart of the controversy lies in allegations made by a businesswoman who accused Vidal of abusing his power. According to her, the mayor allegedly ordered the closure of her gaming establishment after she refused to finance not one, but two orchestras for an anniversary celebration in Huaycán. She claimed that municipal officials demanded the hiring of specific musical groups, one of which requested 15,000 soles in payment. When she rejected the proposal, her establishment was purportedly shut down despite maintaining correct documentation.
The businesswoman’s allegations did not stop at abuse of authority; she expressed fear for her safety, claiming that this was not the first instance of intimidation she had faced. She notably referenced a video circulating on social platforms that depicts Mayor Vidal dancing with the well-known artist Chacalón Jr., who has purported ties to the criminal group known as “Los Octos.”
“This is not freedom of expression but a defamation. You no longer apply the presumption of innocence,” said Vidal, as he dismissed the claims. He stressed the importance of the presumption of innocence in situations where accusations have not been substantiated in a court of law.
“I will prepare a notarial letter with my lawyers for you to rectify yourself. Anyone who makes unfounded claims must be held accountable,” he stressed. This statement underscores not only his intention to seek reparations but also his stance on journalistic accountability.
In the 2022 municipal elections, Vidal surged to prominence, becoming the youngest mayor in the district and across Lima. His live broadcasts on Kick since August 2024 have been aimed at showcasing his administration and engaging with local residents. However, his governance has not been without its controversies. Notably, he has faced accusations of threatening journalists, including René Gastelumendi and Alexandra Hörler, allegedly stirring animosity among his supporters on social media platforms.
Earlier in July, a controversial incident unfolded when Vidal was barred from entering a Smart Fit gym for failing to adhere to clothing regulations. Following this, his municipal team inspected the gym and uncovered various irregularities, leading to its temporary closure. Critics have suggested that he may have exploited his municipal influence following a personal grievance against the establishment.
According to municipal engineers, while the gym had an approved technical file from 2023, they found that certain areas, originally designated for hygienic services, were being used for storage instead. This revelation adds another layer to the unfolding saga of Vidal’s controversial administration and raises questions about the ethical dimensions of governance.
As these events continue to unfold, both Mayor Franco Vidal and journalist Mávila Huertas remain at the center of scrutiny, with public interest piqued in their respective roles in this high-stakes confrontation. The final outcome of their legal battle is anticipated to have implications that might extend beyond their personal grievances, affecting how public figures engage with the media and the boundaries of freedom of expression in Peru.