Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo is on trial for rebellion, abuse of power, and disturbing the peace due to his 2022 attempt to dissolve Congress. This action led to his detention in December 2022 and subsequent unrest in Peru. Prosecutors are seeking a 34-year prison sentence. Castillo denies the charges, labeling the trial a “farce,” while his arrest ignited protests across the nation.
Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has commenced trial following his detention in December 2022. He faces severe allegations including rebellion, abuse of power, and disrupting peace due to his failed attempt to dissolve Congress in December 2022 amidst impending impeachment proceedings. Castillo, who was the nation’s first indigenous president and previously an ex-union leader, surprised many by winning the 2021 election.
The trial takes place inside a police compound where Castillo has remained since his arrest over two years ago. Prosecutors accuse him of attempting to orchestrate a coup and are pursuing a 34-year prison sentence. In his opening remarks, Castillo denied the rebellion charges, asserting, “All I did was express the wishes of the people through a speech,” referencing his televised address on 7 December 2022, wherein he proposed to dissolve Congress and call for new elections.
In the trial, Castillo has opted not to employ his own legal counsel, denouncing the proceedings as a “farce” on his social media platforms. Consequently, he has been assigned a lawyer. Furthermore, he has requested the removal of one presiding judge, claiming she has exhibited bias regarding his case. Concurrently, Castillo is under investigation in a separate case concerning corruption.
His arrest provoked significant protests across Peru, particularly in the southern regions, culminating in at least 49 fatalities due to the unrest. Additionally, Castillo’s ousting has led to strained diplomatic relations between Peru and left-leaning governments in Mexico and Colombia. On social media, Colombian President Gustavo Petro emphasized that Castillo is being prosecuted solely based on his socioeconomic status and political affiliation, stating that he is being targeted for rebellion simply because “he is poor and from the left.”
The trial of former President Pedro Castillo marks a significant chapter in Peruvian political tumult, highlighting issues of governance, social unrest, and allegations of political persecution. Faced with serious charges, including rebellion and abuse of power, Castillo’s actions in December 2022 continue to resonate throughout Peru, stirring divisions within society. Furthermore, the case raises broader questions regarding the treatment of leftist leaders in contemporary Latin America.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
