The mobilization called by ADEOMS Salto on Monday left more than flags and proclamations: according to a confidential source who confirmed off-the-record to this media outlet, cash payments were reportedly given to several people housed in the MIDES shelter in Asencio and Brasil to attend the protest in Plaza Artigas.
The union's demand for the mass layoff of municipal contracts was real and was attended by members and supporters. The complaint, however, adds a disturbing layer: the alleged use of vulnerable people as tokens to swell the ranks of the protesters. The source, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisals, described previous offers and confirmed that, in some cases, money was actually handed over.
So far, no receipts or documentary evidence has been presented to support this story. Therefore, the article attributes the accusation to the source and demands verification: signed statements, additional witnesses, shelter records, or any other supporting documentation that would allow the information to be verified.
If this story is confirmed, the implications are serious. Exploiting homeless people for political or union purposes violates the ethics and dignity of those who depend on social programs. Furthermore, it transforms a legitimate demand for work into an operation that could damage the union's credibility and open up administrative or criminal liability for the organizers.
The episode also exposes the fragility of the local news ecosystem: in a context of tension over the dismissals, social media spreads versions at high speed and doesn't always distinguish between proven facts and rumors. Having a confidential source forces the media outlet to proceed with caution: publishing the attribution, gathering evidence, and giving the parties an opportunity to respond.
To advance verification, at least one of the following elements is required: a written statement from the source, independent testimony from other people at the shelter or staff, proof of cash transfers, or records of organized departures from the shelter during the indicated time slot. A public response from ADEOMS, MIDES, and the Municipality is also key, as they must explain whether there were coordinated movements or extraordinary measures surrounding the mobilization.
The defense of municipal jobs is the core of the claim; but if it is proven that payments were made to shelter residents, the debate must include how to protect those under state guardianship and what ethical boundaries should be respected by those claiming rights. For now, the version—maintained by a confidential source—requires investigation and caution before becoming a proven claim. This article will be updated with evidence and official responses. Any witness or person with information is asked to contact this media outlet to provide information that will advance the investigation .
