Valparaíso's regional health secretary, Lorena Cofré, resigned citing mental health reasons amid an investigation into labor mistreatment and discrimination against journalist Sol Millakura, who died by suicide last November.
On Tuesday, the resignation of Lorena Cofré, Valparaíso's regional health secretary, was confirmed following the scandal stemming from a complaint by her subordinate, journalist Sol Millakura. Cofré, a Frente Amplio militant, had been suspended from her party and was on medical leave while a deputy assumed her duties.
The case came to light in a Tele13 report aired Monday night, detailing the lawsuit filed by Millakura in March 2025. The journalist, who identified as non-binary, accused Cofré of rights violations, unjustified dismissal, and discrimination based on gender identity. Millakura was removed from the health secretariat that same month and, after months of hostilities in the workplace, died by suicide in November 2025.
Sources familiar with the case told La Tercera that Cofré cited “mental health reasons” for stepping down from the position, where she was under investigation. The official had been accused of fostering a hostile environment in the office, where Millakura worked as a fellow party member. So far, no further details have emerged on the investigative process or potential additional sanctions.
This incident highlights labor discrimination issues in Chilean public institutions, particularly in contexts of gender diversity. Cofré's departure leaves the Valparaíso Health Ministry in a precarious position as the case's repercussions unfold.