Peruvian President Dina Boluarte declared a 30-day state of emergency in Lima and Callao after the murder of cumbia singer Paul Flores. The decree limits constitutional rights to combat crime, and Boluarte is contemplating restoring the death penalty for violent criminals. Critics argue previous emergency measures have failed to reduce crime, raising doubts about the feasibility of her proposals.
On Monday, Peruvian President Dina Boluarte announced a 30-day state of emergency in Lima and Callao following the murder of popular cumbia singer Paul Flores. The proclamation, effective March 18, suspends constitutional rights including freedom of assembly, home inviolability, and personal freedom, and mandates the deployment of Armed Forces alongside local police to address crime-related issues.
The announcement follows widespread public outrage regarding Flores’ death and has sparked censure motions against Interior Minister Juan José Santiváñez. President Boluarte has also expressed consideration of reinstating the death penalty for those involved in violent crimes. She stated, “To these bloody murderers I say that I am seriously thinking about the death penalty, because no hitman, no extortionist, will be able to stain with blood families who love their children.”
Critics, including Congressman Jaime Quito and former Interior Minister Carlos Basombrío, have raised concerns, arguing previous states of emergency have not effectively reduced crime rates, with certain crimes actually increasing. Moreover, experts indicate that reinstating the death penalty clashes with Peru’s international obligations against capital punishment, thus making Boluarte’s statement appear populist and unlikely to be realized.
Justice Minister Eduardo Arana subtly criticized the Interior Ministry’s response to the situation, while the Public Prosecutor’s Office and National Police are presently investigating the details surrounding Flores’ murder. On the day of the incident, assailants reportedly targeted a bus carrying the band Armonía 10, leading to Flores being fatally injured, although none of his bandmates were harmed.
Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzén confirmed the issuance of the state of emergency for both Lima and Callao, ensuring the deployment of military personnel to assist in law enforcement efforts against crime.
The recent murder of Paul Flores prompted President Dina Boluarte to declare a state of emergency in key areas of Peru while considering extreme measures such as the reintroduction of the death penalty. Despite public support for strong action, critics highlight that past measures have not effectively curbed crime, and reinstating capital punishment poses significant legal challenges. The investigation into Flores’ murder remains ongoing, indicating a critical focus on enhancing public safety.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
