Pedro Castillo, the former president of Peru, has been hospitalized after starting a hunger strike to protest his detention. He is on trial for rebellion after an attempt to dissolve Congress to avoid impeachment. Prosecutors seek a 34-year prison term, amid significant political turmoil in the country.
Pedro Castillo, the former president of Peru, has been hospitalized after four days of a hunger strike protesting his imprisonment. The trial judge noted that he is stable but had fallen ill under preventive custody, which he has been in since December 2022. His legal representation described the hunger strike as a peaceful protest against what they deem his arbitrary confinement.
Castillo, age 55, is currently facing trial after attempting to dissolve Congress to evade an impeachment process prompted by alleged corruption. This turbulent political climate led to his ousting just 17 months into his presidency in 2022. Throughout his tenure, he faced significant opposition and multiple investigations regarding graft, which he claims are unfounded.
Facing three impeachment attempts and increasing political challenges, Castillo’s drastic move was made as he tried to seek asylum at the Mexican Embassy in Lima. As a consequence of his actions, he was arrested. Prosecutors are currently seeking a 34-year prison sentence on charges of rebellion and abuse of authority against him. Alongside Castillo, several former ministers and officials are also on trial, marking his case as another significant moment in Peru’s turbulent political history.
In summary, Pedro Castillo’s situation exemplifies the ongoing political instability in Peru, filled with allegations of corruption and power struggles. His hunger strike reflects profound resistance against his imprisonment and the charges against him. Castillo’s trial, along with that of several associates, highlights the pressures faced by leaders in a politically charged environment where accountability and governance continue to evolve.
Original Source: www.lebanondemocrat.com
