Pedro Castillo Hospitalized During Hunger Strike Amid Ongoing Trial

Pedro Castillo, the ousted former president of Peru, has been hospitalized after four days of hunger strike protesting his imprisonment. He faces trial for rebellion following his attempt to dissolve Congress to avoid impeachment, as he endures significant political opposition. Prosecutors are pursuing a 34-year sentence for Castillo on serious charges, alongside several former officials who are also on trial.

Pedro Castillo, the former president of Peru, is currently hospitalized after four days undertaking a hunger strike. This action is part of his protest against what he describes as his “unjust, arbitrary” imprisonment while on trial for rebellion. Castillo has been in preventive custody since December 2022 following his attempt to dissolve Congress in order to avoid impeachment related to allegations of corruption.

Despite being hospitalized after becoming ill, Castillo is reportedly in stable condition, as confirmed by trial judge Norma Carbajal. The judge declined a defense request to delay proceedings due to Castillo’s absence. Castillo’s lawyer initially announced the hunger strike as a peaceful demonstration against his detention, emphasizing the serious nature of his legal situation.

Having served in office from July 2021, Castillo has faced extensive political opposition and numerous graft investigations, which he contends are politically motivated. Notably, he survived two impeachment votes prior to attempting to dissolve Congress, which ultimately led to his arrest en route to the Mexican Embassy in Lima with his family. Prosecutors have sought a 34-year prison term for Castillo on the grounds of rebellion and abuse of authority, while several of his former officials are awaiting trial alongside him.

In summary, Pedro Castillo remains hospitalized after initiating a hunger strike in protest of his trial and imprisonment. Facing serious legal allegations, including rebellion and corruption, he has endured significant political opposition since assuming office. Despite his challenging circumstances, Castillo continues to fight against what he deems as unjust treatment by the judicial system, reflecting the broader crisis of governance in Peru.

Original Source: www.derbyinformer.com