Minister of the Surpreme Court has spent one year on medical leave due to serious illness

SANTIAGO.-  According to a statement released today by the president of the Maximum Tribunal, Urbano Marín, Surpreme Court Minister Orlando Álvarez has spent almost one year out of work due to serious illness.

The 73 year-old judge has been on medical leave since December 31st of 2007 as a result of advanced diabetes problems in his feet, as well as kidney failure that has required him to undergo dialysis. 

he magistrate also suffers from heart problems, which have required surgery on three occasions.

“Serious illness has kept him in treatment since January.  He undergoes dialysis three times a week and is having diabetic problems with his feet.  It is serious.  That is why he needs treatment and he has been getting it”, stated Minister Marín after the information was revealed by Radio ADN.

When asked about the minister possibly leaving his position, the head of the Supreme Court was emphatic in assuring: “Resignation is voluntary, sick individuals are treated as such and that is the idea”.

Orlando Álvarez is the second most senior member of the Surpreme Court and, as such, he is one of the judges that could be chosen to succeed Urbano Marín during the elections in 2010.