Pedro Castillo, Peru’s ex-president, is on trial for rebellion after attempting to dissolve Congress to avoid impeachment over corruption allegations. Prosecutors seek a lengthy prison sentence. His presidency lasted 17 months before his removal and arrest. Meanwhile, Dina Boluarte, his successor, faces criticism amid ongoing protests and additional allegations against her.
Pedro Castillo, Peru’s ousted ex-president and a former schoolteacher known as the country’s “first poor president,” is currently on trial in Lima on charges of rebellion. The trial stems from his controversial attempt to dissolve Congress and rule by decree in order to evade impeachment over allegations of corruption. Castillo, who has been in preventive custody since December 2022, arrived at court guarded by penitentiary staff, marking the beginning of a legal battle that could last several months.
Prosecutors are seeking a substantial 34-year prison sentence for Mr. Castillo, who is now 55 years old, citing rebellion and abuse of authority as the basis for their charges. Castillo, who rose to prominence as a union leader in 2017 during a teachers’ strike, faced significant political opposition shortly after being elected in July 2021, which led to multiple investigations regarding graft claims against him. He maintains that these allegations are politically motivated.
After surviving two impeachment attempts, Castillo attempted to dissolve Congress as a third vote loomed. This move ultimately resulted in his arrest as he sought refuge at the Mexican embassy with his family, who are currently still there seeking asylum. He was impeached just 17 months into his presidency and has since become one of four former presidents facing legal repercussions for various offenses.
Peru’s political landscape has been notably unstable, with six presidents in the past eight years, a situation compounded by ongoing protests against his successor, Dina Boluarte, who took over after Castillo’s removal. Boluarte has faced criticism and inquiries into her actions, particularly related to protests that have resulted in fatalities, including children. While facing investigations for several allegations, including accepting bribes, she has immunity from prosecution until the end of her presidential term in 2026.
The trial of Pedro Castillo highlights the ongoing political turmoil in Peru, revealing the challenges faced by its leaders amid allegations of corruption and political unrest. Castillo’s legal proceedings could serve as a significant test of the country’s judicial system and political integrity. The instability is further reflected in the actions and controversies surrounding his successor, thus painting a complex picture of Peru’s recent governance.
Original Source: www.france24.com
