Former president Pedro Castillo of Peru has been hospitalized after four days of hunger striking to protest his imprisonment. Castillo faces charges of rebellion and abuse of authority, leading to a potential 34-year prison sentence. He was ousted after attempting to dissolve Congress to avoid impeachment, reflecting the ongoing political strife in Peru.
Pedro Castillo, the former president of Peru, has been hospitalized after entering a hunger strike on the fourth day of his protest. This action was initiated in response to what his legal team describes as his “unjust, arbitrary” imprisonment amid ongoing legal proceedings for rebellion. Castillo has been in custody since December 2022, facing serious charges after attempting to dissolve Congress to avoid impending impeachment.
At 55 years of age, Castillo is currently on trial for his actions in a political climate marked by significant opposition and allegations of corruption. Following his election in 2021, he quickly became embroiled in investigations regarding graft, which he has consistently denied, attributing them to political machinations against him.
Judge Norma Carbajal confirmed Castillo’s hospitalization due to illness but reassured that he remains stable and out of immediate danger. Her decision denied the defense’s request to delay the hearing, emphasizing that judicial proceedings would continue as planned despite his absence.
Since his inauguration in July 2021, Castillo has faced persistent challenges, including two failed impeachment attempts, leading to his drastic measure of trying to rule by decree. His arrest occurred while he attempted to reach the Mexican Embassy in Lima with his family to seek asylum.
Currently, prosecutors are seeking a 34-year prison sentence for Castillo on multiple charges, including rebellion and abuse of authority. Additionally, several former ministers and officials are also facing trial alongside him, making Castillo the fourth former president of Peru entangled in legal issues over the past twenty-five years.
In summary, former Peru President Pedro Castillo has been hospitalized following a hunger strike in protest of his imprisonment as he faces serious legal challenges for rebellion and abuse of authority. Despite his deteriorating health, judicial proceedings against him continue, underscoring the ongoing political turmoil in Peru’s governance. Castillo’s situation reflects the broader issues of political opposition and corruption allegations that have plagued his presidency since its inception.
Original Source: www.lebanondemocrat.com
