Pedro Castillo has ended a four-day hunger strike protesting his trial on charges of rebellion. Detained since December 7, 2022, he faces severe legal consequences, including a 34-year prison sentence. His ousting has led to public unrest and prompted investigations into corruption during his presidency, affecting Peru’s political landscape.
Former President Pedro Castillo of Peru concluded a hunger strike lasting four days on Thursday as a protest against his ongoing trial for rebellion and related charges. Judicial authorities confirmed his end of the hunger strike, following a brief hospitalization due to health issues. Castillo, who has been in detention since December 7, 2022, declared the dissolution of Congress, which led to his immediate removal from office by Congress.
Castillo is currently facing significant legal challenges, including charges of rebellion, severe abuse of authority, and disruption of public tranquility, with prosecutors seeking a 34-year prison sentence. He has characterized his trial as a “politicized” “pantomime” and has declined legal assistance allocated by the judicial system. His detention following a controversial exit from office has notably divided public opinion in Peru.
The ousting of Peru’s first Indigenous president has sparked widespread protests, particularly in the southern regions, resulting in at least 49 fatalities in subsequent demonstrations. He was succeeded by Dina Boluarte, who served as vice president. In addition to his current trial, Castillo is also under investigation for alleged corruption during his presidency, adding another layer to his legal troubles.
Pedro Castillo’s recent conclusion of a hunger strike highlights the ongoing political turmoil in Peru regarding his trial for rebellion and other charges. His detention, marked by claims of political bias and widespread protests, signifies a critical moment in the nation’s history, particularly as it involves significant allegations against Peru’s first Indigenous president. With both a trial and corruption investigations pending, Castillo’s legal battles continue to dominate national discourse.
Original Source: apnews.com
