Pedro Castillo Hospitalized After Hunger Strike Amid Trial in Peru

Pedro Castillo, Peru’s former president, hospitalized after four days of hunger strike while facing trial for attempting to dissolve Congress amidst corruption charges. His protest signals escalating political unrest in Peru following his controversial removal from office.

Pedro Castillo, the ousted ex-president of Peru, has been hospitalized after four days of a hunger strike, as confirmed by the judge overseeing his case. Having been removed from office in December 2022, Castillo, 55, is currently on trial for allegedly seeking to dissolve Congress in an attempt to evade impending impeachment related to corruption accusations.

Castillo’s legal counsel indicated that he initiated the hunger strike as a form of peaceful protest against what they describe as his “unjust, arbitrary” imprisonment. Following his hospitalization due to a decline in health, trial judge Norma Carbajal reassured that Castillo remains “stable” and out of danger. She denied a defense request to adjourn the hearing due to his absence.

Initially celebrated as Peru’s “first poor president” upon his election in 2021, Castillo’s presidency was marred by relentless political challenges. Despite eluding impeachment on two occasions, he attempted to dissolve Congress in response to a third imminent vote, an action that led to his arrest while en route to the Mexican Embassy in Lima.

The prosecution is pursuing a 34-year prison term for Castillo on charges of rebellion and abuse of authority. He is not alone in facing legal consequences; three former ministers and several police officials are also on trial alongside him, marking Castillo as the fourth former president in recent decades to face such legal scrutiny.

In summary, Pedro Castillo’s ongoing trial and recent hospitalization due to a hunger strike underscore the continuing political turmoil in Peru. After his controversial ousting and multiple corruption inquiries, Castillo’s actions reflect his ongoing challenges against a backdrop of significant political opposition. With serious legal implications ahead, the situation remains fluid and complex as it develops.

Original Source: today.rtl.lu