Secretary of state-designate asks House panel not to address past gender-based violence incident

Designated Secretary of State Verónica Ferraiuoli Hornedo

By The Star Staff

Designated Secretary of State Verónica Ferraiuoli Hornedo asked lawmakers on Monday not to ask her questions about a past incident of gender-based violence involving her husband, designated La Fortaleza Chief of Staff Francisco Domenech, during her confirmation hearing in the island House of Representatives.

“These events occurred when I was not a public figure, more than seven years ago,” Ferraiuoli Hornedo said during the hearing, in the presence of her daughters. “We are imperfect people who have made mistakes and have always had the strength to fight for our marriage, our daughters, our family, and to forgive each other.”

The designated official asked for respect and that the personal matter not hijack the purpose of the hearing.

“With the utmost respect and humility, I request that this personal matter not be the focus of our discussion today,” she said. “It is important to me that this day not be tarnished by malicious questions, whose sole purpose is to rekindle a situation that is long gone from our lives.”

The appointee also addressed recently disclosed allegations about a supposed effort made before the Physicians and Surgeons Association to favor a friend, which she described as false.

“I categorically deny that I have requested any action from the Physicians Association for or against any candidate” Ferraiuoli Hornedo said in her statement. “That allegation is false.”

Ferraiuoli Hornedo appeared before the House Government Committee in a public hearing held in the hearing room known as Room 1 of the Capitol, as part of the confirmation process for her appointment as secretary of state.

The appointment requires the approval of both the House and the Senate, as stipulated in the Puerto Rico Constitution.