Former President Pedro Castillo of Peru is on trial facing charges of rebellion and abuse of power following his attempt to dissolve Congress in December 2022. Prosecutors seek a 34-year prison sentence while Castillo denies wrongdoing and claims his actions represented the people’s wishes. The political crisis has sparked protests and worsened Peru’s relations with leftist nations.
The trial of former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has commenced, following his detention in December 2022 on charges of rebellion, abuse of power, and disrupting public peace. This case stems from his failed attempt to dissolve Congress in December 2022, just as an impeachment vote against him was anticipated, creating significant division within Peru.
Castillo, who made history as Peru’s first indigenous president after winning the 2021 election, is facing serious allegations related to his actions during this political crisis. Prosecutors assert that he aimed to execute a coup, and they are seeking a lengthy prison sentence of 34 years.
During the trial’s opening statements, Castillo refuted the rebellion charges and stated, “All I did was express the wishes of the people through a speech,” referring to a broadcasted address where he announced Congress’s dissolution and proposed new elections. He has opted not to engage personal legal counsel, labeling the trial a “farce” on social media, leading to court-assigned representation.
Additionally, Castillo has attempted to remove one of the judges, citing her apparent bias against him. Beyond the rebellion charges, he is also under investigation for potential corruption. His arrest has ignited extensive protests across Peru, resulting in at least 49 fatalities and straining Peru’s ties with leftist governments in nations like Mexico and Colombia.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro, a supporter of Castillo, publicly criticized the charges, asserting they stem from socioeconomic biases, stating that Castillo is targeted because “he is poor and from the left.”
The trial of Pedro Castillo highlights significant political tensions in Peru, stemming from his controversial attempt to dissolve Congress. As he faces serious charges that could lead to a lengthy imprisonment, the socio-political landscape in Peru remains fraught with division and unrest, underscored by widespread protests and strained diplomatic ties with neighboring left-leaning governments.
Original Source: www.euronews.com
