Pedro Castillo, Peru’s former president, faces rebellion charges in Lima for attempting to dissolve Congress to avoid impeachment over corruption claims. Held in preventive custody, he began his trial which could last months, as prosecutors seek a 34-year sentence. His presidency has highlighted severe political instability in Peru.
On Tuesday, former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo began trial proceedings in Lima, facing rebellion charges for attempting to dissolve Congress in an effort to evade impeachment related to corruption allegations. Castillo, labeled Peru’s “first poor president” at his election in 2021, has been in detention since December 2022.
The accentuated trial marks the first day of a process anticipated to last several months. Castillo appeared in court under the supervision of law enforcement agents, dressed simply without his signature wide-brimmed hat, as prosecutors seek a 34-year prison term for rebellion and abuse of power.
Castillo’s rise from humble beginnings as a village schoolteacher to a prominent union leader was marked by a tumultuous presidency. After assuming office in July 2021, he encountered fierce opposition and immediate investigations regarding graft, which he claims were politically motivated attempts to undermine him.
Over his 17-month presidency, Castillo survived two impeachment votes before attempting to dissolve Congress, leading to his arrest while en route to the Mexican embassy for asylum with his family, who remain there. He is the fourth former president to face legal action in Peru amid ongoing political turmoil.
His successor, Dina Boluarte, has also drawn scrutiny and protests calling for her resignation and early elections as she faces investigations linked to protester deaths and allegations of receiving bribes. Though she has political immunity until 2026, her situation adds to the country’s instability and ongoing political crises.
In summary, Pedro Castillo’s trial highlights serious political instability in Peru, with ongoing corruption accusations and violent protests underlined by his recent attempts to evade impeachment. The legal process will further explore issues of governance while also reflecting on the scrutiny faced by current leadership, particularly Dina Boluarte. Peru’s political landscape remains fraught, causing unrest among the population.
Original Source: www.france24.com
