Pedro Castillo Hospitalized Amid Ongoing Trial and Hunger Strike

Former President Pedro Castillo of Peru has been hospitalized after a hunger strike that began as a protest against his imprisonment. On trial for rebellion following his attempt to dissolve Congress, Castillo is facing serious charges alongside several officials. He has been in custody since December 2022.

Pedro Castillo, the former president of Peru, has been hospitalized after four days of a hunger strike. He is currently on trial for rebellion and had attempted to dissolve Congress to avoid impeachment related to allegations of corruption. Since December 2022, Castillo has been in preventive custody while facing multiple graft claims, which he categorically denies, asserting they are politically motivated.

Castillo’s lawyer announced that the hunger strike was initiated as a “peaceful protest” against what he describes as “unjust, arbitrary” imprisonment. During a court session, Judge Norma Carbajal confirmed that Castillo was taken to the hospital after experiencing health issues; however, she noted he was “stable” and out of immediate danger. Despite Castillo’s absence, the judge dismissed a defense request to postpone the legal proceedings.

The leftist politician, known as Peru’s “first poor president” upon his election in 2021, was removed from office just 17 months after assuming the presidency. His presidency was marked by intense political opposition and scrutiny from the outset, leading to multiple impeachment attempts. Castillo had survived two previous impeachment votes, but his attempt to dissolve Congress was met with arrest as he sought refuge in the Mexican Embassy in Lima with his family.

Prosecutors are seeking a 34-year prison sentence for Castillo on counts of rebellion and abuse of authority. Alongside him, three ex-ministers, a former presidential adviser, and three police officials are facing trial, marking Castillo as the fourth Peruvian president in the last quarter-century to face such legal challenges.

In summary, Pedro Castillo’s hospitalization follows his hunger strike against what he claims is unjust imprisonment. His trial reflects a tumultuous political climate in Peru, where he has faced persistent allegations of corruption and political opposition. As prosecutors seek a lengthy prison sentence, Castillo’s case exemplifies the severe challenges faced by leaders in contemporary Peruvian politics.

Original Source: www.lebanondemocrat.com