MarÃa Eugenia Garrido Vega has been a significant figure in Chilean local politics and the long-standing partner of Manuel Monsalve since 1993. Known for her activism and leadership, she served as a municipal councilor in Los Ãlamos the same commune where her husband began his political journey and medical career. Over the years, Garrido became a respected voice in her community, balancing public service, family life, and political challenges.
Political Background and Career
MarÃa Eugenia Garrido Vega is a long-time member of the Socialist Party of Chile and served as a councilor in the municipality of Los Ãlamos for three terms: 20002004, 20042008, and 20122016.
Advocacy in Worker Rights
One of Garrido’s most memorable actions occurred in 2010, when she drove her car to block the entrance of the Regional Labor Department (Dirección del Trabajo) in Lebu. She protested on behalf of a pregnant woman working under unsafe conditions at a supermarket without proper facilities. Garrido remained stationed until an inspector arrived to address the situation, demonstrating her commitment to labor rights and diligent oversight.
Partnership with Manuel Monsalve
Married in 1993, MarÃa Eugenia Garrido and Manuel Monsalve built their lives in Los Ãlamos, where Monsalve began his medical practice and political career. Their union produced two daughters, Amanda SofÃa and Carmen Gabriela, both of whom pursued professional careers, with one following in her father’s footsteps in medicine.
Shared Political Values
Both Garrido and Monsalve are members of the Socialist Party, sharing similar political convictions and a commitment to public service in the BiobÃo region. They played significant roles in local governance and social advocacy through overlapping terms of service Monsalve as a councilor and later deputy, and Garrido as a multiple-term councilor in Los Ãlamos.
Recent Legal Challenges and Separation of Assets
Amid Manuel Monsalve’s legal controversies including charges of sexual assault, violation, and obstruction of justice dating from 2024 MarÃa Eugenia Garrido has remained publicly supportive of her husband and engaged in the legal and emotional ordeal with him. She visited him at the Capitán Yáber prison annex in Santiago, where he was held under preventive detention, and expressed gratitude toward the family supporters and prayers while affirming their unity as a family.
In a significant legal step, on November 8, 2024 six days before Monsalve’s arrest the couple signed a public deed of separation of assets. This decision was reportedly made to protect family assets and limit legal exposure, given Monsalve’s impending inability to manage finances due to his detention.
Family and Personal Life
Garrido is mother to two daughters, who have both pursued professional paths. Amanda SofÃa followed her father with a medical career in the BiobÃo region, while Carmen Gabriela worked in community development, even serving in San Pedro de Atacama for a time.
Legacy in Local Politics
MarÃa Eugenia Garrido’s political legacy is tied to her principled stance on issues of accountability and worker protections in Los Ãlamos. Her bold actions, such as blocking institutional access to promote labor rights or triggering the removal of corrupt council members, reflect a politician deeply rooted in activism and ethical governance.
Her impact in the community offers insight into a political career defined by direct action and resistance to systemic issues qualities that remain significant amid the challenges her family currently faces.
A Partner, Politician, and Advocate
MarÃa Eugenia Garrido Vega combines public service and personal conviction in her role as both a long-serving councilor and the partner of a high-profile Chilean politician. Her political career reflects dedication to transparency and social justice, while her personal commitments during crisis emphasize loyalty and resilience. Together with Manuel Monsalve, she represents a family deeply embedded in local politics and public service, navigating not only civic responsibilities but also complex personal trials in the public sphere.