Synopsis
The trial of former Peru President Pedro Castillo has begun, where he faces rebellion charges for attempting to dissolve Congress in December 2022, an act that led to widespread protests and significant unrest in the country.Key Takeaways
- Pedro Castillo is on trial for attempting a coup by dissolving Congress.
- His actions sparked protests leading to 49 casualties.
- Castillo claims to be 'kidnapped' and deems the trial a farce.
- The prosecution seeks a 34-year sentence for Castillo.
- Dina Boluarte succeeded him as President.
Lima, March 5 (NationPress) The former President of Peru, Pedro Castillo (2021-2022), has commenced his trial, facing accusations of attempting a coup d'état by attempting to dissolve Congress back in December 2022.
The allegations arise from Castillo's unsuccessful attempt to declare a state of emergency and disband Peru's Congress as legislators were gearing up for an impeachment vote against him in December 2022, according to Xinhua news agency.
Castillo was unable to garner military support for his actions and was quickly removed from office by Congress and arrested after being charged with attempting to incite a coup. However, his ousting, marked by being Peru's first Indigenous President, ignited widespread protests in the southern region of the country, resulting in the deaths of at least 49 individuals in the weeks following his removal.
The Supreme Court of Justice in Peru shared on social media that, “The Judiciary is initiating the trial hearings against former President Pedro Castillo and six other individuals accused of rebellion and various crimes.”
The hearings are taking place at the Barbadillo Penitentiary in Lima, where Castillo, aged 55, is currently incarcerated.
Co-defendants in this case include Betssy Chavez and Anibal Torres, both of whom previously held the position of President of the Council of Ministers.
Charges of rebellion have also been leveled against former Interior Minister Willy Huerta, along with three former officers from the National Police: Manuel Lozada, Justo Venero, and Eder Infanzon.
As reported by the state news agency Andina, the former President referred to his situation as being “kidnapped” at Barbadillo, describing the judicial proceedings against him as a “farce.”
The prosecution is pushing for a substantial 34-year prison sentence for Castillo, alongside a prohibition from holding public office for a duration of three years and six months. The other defendants could face incarceration ranging from 15 to 25 years if found guilty.
Earlier on Tuesday, a contingent of Castillo's supporters congregated outside the Barbadillo prison to express solidarity with their former leader.
Castillo was succeeded by then-Vice President Dina Boluarte, who now heads a conservative administration and has formed alliances with legislators from the established political parties of the nation. The trial of the former President is occurring at a police facility, where he has been detained since his failed attempt to disband Congress and call for new elections.
