Trial Begins for Former Peruvian President Castillo Over Congressional Dissolution Attempt

Former President Pedro Castillo of Peru is on trial for rebellion, abuse of authority, and disturbing public tranquility following a failed attempt to dissolve Congress in December 2022. His removal led to protests and significant unrest, with calls for a 34-year prison sentence. Castillo argues he is innocent, stating that reading a decree does not constitute rebellion.

Pedro Castillo, the former president of Peru, commenced trial on charges of rebellion, grave abuse of authority, and disturbing public order. These allegations arose from his unsuccessful attempt in December 2022 to declare a state of emergency and dissolve Congress amidst impending impeachment proceedings against him. His efforts failed due to lack of military support, leading to his immediate removal and subsequent arrest as prosecutors accused him of attempting a coup.

Following Castillo’s removal, large protests erupted across southern Peru, resulting in the deaths of at least 49 individuals. Former Vice President Dina Boluarte succeeded him, steering a conservative administration aligned with conventional political parties. Currently, Castillo is being tried at a police base, where he has been detained since his attempted dissolution of Congress and call for new elections.

Prosecutors are reportedly seeking a lengthy prison sentence of 34 years for Castillo, a former union leader who gained a shocking victory in the 2021 elections against the political establishment. Before his controversial actions, Castillo had previously survived two impeachment votes, which his supporters claim were orchestrated by conservative factions within Congress to undermine his government.

Critics of Castillo have leveled accusations of corruption and the erosion of democracy due to his efforts to dissolve Congress. This situation is reminiscent of Alberto Fujimori’s authoritarian regime in the early 1990s, which began with a similar congressional shutdown. During a recent pre-trial hearing, Castillo asserted his innocence, emphasizing that his declaration to dissolve Congress was not executed.

“I only read out a document that had no consequences,” Castillo defended in May. “Since when does reading a speech become rebellion? Since when is a speech the same as using ammunition?” In addition to the ongoing trial, Castillo also faces allegations in a separate corruption investigation, related to questionable military promotions and procurement irregularities for a bridge contract.

In summary, Pedro Castillo is undergoing trial for attempting to dissolve Peru’s Congress as he faced impeachment, with prosecutors seeking a lengthy prison sentence. His removal has led to significant unrest, exemplifying the political divide in the country. Castillo maintains that his actions were misunderstood and defends against accusations of rebellion and corruption, echoing a historical pattern of political turmoil in Peru.

Original Source: www.newsday.com