Pedro Castillo Initiates Hunger Strike Amid Rebellion Trial Protest

Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has begun a hunger strike protesting his rebellion trial, facing a 34-year prison sentence. He claims the trial is unjust and politicized, asserting his innocence in attempting to dissolve Congress. Castillo’s actions led to significant political upheaval and civil protests, resulting in over 50 deaths.

Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has declared a hunger strike in protest of his impending trial for alleged rebellion, facing a potential sentence of 34 years in prison. Detained since December 7, 2022, after announcing his intent to dissolve Congress, Castillo asserts that he is protesting against the injustices he claims to have suffered.

Castillo criticized Judge Norma Carbajal for allegedly prejudging his case and believes that the notion of rebellion should not necessitate physical violence. He has referred to the trial as “politicized” and described it as a “pantomime,” refusing to accept legal counsel from the judicial system.

During the trial’s opening, Castillo maintained his innocence, asserting that his actions were merely expressing the desires of the people through political speech. He was charged after attempting to dissolve Parliament to evade a potential removal vote over allegations of his inability to govern. His actions resulted in Congress’s decision to remove him, subsequently leading to Vice President Dina Boluarte assuming the presidency. The protests that ensued claimed over 50 civilian lives over the following three months.

Castillo, a former union leader and educator who unexpectedly won the presidency in 2021, is also under investigation for alleged corruption during his administration.

In summary, former President Pedro Castillo has initiated a hunger strike as a form of protest against what he perceives to be injustices in his trial for rebellion. His assertion of innocence centers on his speech encouraging parliamentary dissolution, framed as a political expression. The political ramifications of his actions led to his removal from power and significant civil unrest in Peru, highlighting the tension between political authority and public dissent.

Original Source: www.newsday.com