The trial of former President Pedro Castillo begins following his failed attempt to dissolve Parliament and interfere with the judiciary. Castillo and several former officials are accused of coup-related charges, with the Prosecutor’s Office seeking lengthy prison sentences. His defense argues there was no rebellion due to a lack of military support, while protests ignited by his ousting have led to significant civilian casualties.
The trial against former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has commenced, primarily stemming from his attempted dissolution of the opposition-controlled Parliament and interference in the judiciary on December 7, 2022. This maneuver failed due to insufficient backing from the military and police forces, leading to Castillo’s arrest as he sought asylum at the Mexican Embassy, accompanying his plea for protection for his family.
Alongside Castillo, several of his former administration officials are facing trial, including ex-Prime Minister Betssy Chávez, currently imprisoned since June 2023, and adviser Aníbal Torres. Others in the dock include Interior Minister Willy Huerta, General Manuel Lozada, Commander Jesús Venero, and Lieutenant Eder Infanzón, all facing similar charges and currently on parole, being alleged as accomplices or co-authors in Castillo’s actions.
The Prosecutor’s Office is pursuing a 25-year prison sentence for the defendants, excluding Torres, for whom a 15-year term has been requested. The defense for Castillo argues that according to the penal code, an armed rebellion necessitates a collective uprising, which they claim did not occur, contrary to the prosecution’s assertion that Castillo had instructed the armed forces to execute a coup.
Anahí Durand, a former Minister of Women in Castillo’s administration, contends that he did not execute a coup d’état due to a lack of military or police support but rather made a desperate attempt to maintain power amid significant political and media opposition. Durand accuses current President Dina Boluarte of conspiring against Castillo and claims that the transition of power has led to widespread social unrest, resulting in the deaths of fifty civilians.
The trial of former President Pedro Castillo highlights significant political tensions in Peru, especially surrounding issues of governance and authority. The outcomes may have profound implications for the involved parties and the current administration under President Dina Boluarte. Notably, the case is emblematic of the broader discord within Peru’s political landscape, which has witnessed severe social turmoil following Castillo’s removal from office.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
