Pedro Castillo, former president of Peru, has launched a hunger strike against his impending rebellion trial that could lead to a 34-year prison sentence. Detained since December 2022 for attempting to dissolve Congress, he claims injustices have been imposed upon him. Castillo describes his trial as politicized, denies wrongdoing, and faces additional corruption investigations.
Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has commenced a hunger strike to protest an upcoming rebellion trial against him, which could result in a 34-year prison sentence. He has been detained since December 7, 2022, after announcing plans to dissolve Congress in a televised address. Castillo states that he is protesting “injustices committed against me” through this hunger strike.
Castillo argues that Judge Norma Carbajal wrongly prejudged his case by labeling his actions as rebellion without the need for physical violence. He has characterized the trial as “politicized” and labeled it a “pantomime,” rejecting legal representation offered by the judicial system.
During the preliminary hearing, Castillo insisted he did not commit rebellion, claiming he was merely expressing the desires of the people in his speech. The Public Ministry charges him with attempting to dissolve Parliament to evade a vote on his removal, which ultimately led to his incarceration. His vice president, Dina Boluarte, succeeded him in power.
The political turmoil following Castillo’s attempt led to significant unrest, resulting in the deaths of over 50 civilians during protests. Furthermore, Castillo is under investigation for potential corruption during his presidency.
Former President Pedro Castillo’s hunger strike reflects his objection to the legal proceedings he faces for alleged rebellion. He contends that he is a victim of politicization and has rejected the notion of rebellion attributed to his actions. The ongoing unrest in Peru underscores the severe consequences of political conflict, and Castillo’s situation exemplifies the challenges within the judicial system following a contentious political tenure. His continued legal battles, including accusations of corruption, further complicate the political landscape in Peru.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
