Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has initiated a hunger strike to protest his ongoing rebellion trial, where he faces a potential 34-year prison sentence. He alleges judicial injustices and criticizes the trial as politically motivated, while also facing ongoing investigations for corruption during his presidency. His actions come in the context of significant political upheaval in Peru following his removal from office.
Pedro Castillo, the former President of Peru, has commenced a hunger strike in protest against the rebellion trial underway against him. This trial stems from allegations of attempting to dissolve Congress on December 7, 2022, for which prosecutors are seeking a sentence of 34 years imprisonment. Castillo has been detained since that date, which followed his declaration of a state of emergency and plans to rule by decree.
In posts on social media, Castillo articulated that he is undertaking this hunger strike as a response to what he perceives as “injustices committed against me.” He accused Judge Norma Carbajal of having prejudged his case when she advanced the notion that armed rebellion does not necessitate physical violence, which Castillo argues unjustly categorizes his actions as rebellion.
The former president has previously described the trial as “politicized” and a mere “pantomime,” emphasizing his refusal of the legal counsel offered by the judicial system. During the trial’s initial proceedings, he asserted that his conduct merely reflected the public’s wishes, stating, “The only thing I did was convey the people’s desire through a political speech.”
The Public Ministry charges Castillo with attempting to dissolve Parliament in order to evade a vote regarding his potential removal, which was motivated by claims of his “permanent moral incapacity” to govern. This attempt ultimately failed, leading to his incarceration and the subsequent ascension of his vice president, Dina Boluarte, to the presidency. Following his removal, significant protests erupted, resulting in over 50 civilian fatalities in a span of three months.
In addition to the rebellion charges, Castillo faces separate investigations for alleged corruption during his tenure as president, having initially gained political prominence as a union leader and educator.
In conclusion, Pedro Castillo’s hunger strike highlights his stance against the perceived injustices of his rebellion trial, which he views as politically motivated. The escalation of events leading to his detention underscores the turbulent political landscape in Peru, particularly marked by his failed attempt to dissolve Congress. Moreover, Castillo continues to face multiple legal challenges, including allegations of corruption.
Original Source: www.wral.com
