Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has begun a hunger strike in protest of a rebellion trial against him, where prosecutors seek a 34-year prison sentence. He claims injustices have been committed against him, while also accusing the judicial system of political bias. His efforts to dissolve Congress led to his ousting and subsequent protests that resulted in civilian deaths.
Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has initiated a hunger strike to protest an ongoing trial against him on charges of rebellion. The prosecution seeks a 34-year prison sentence for Castillo, who has been detained since December 7, 2022, for attempting to dissolve Congress after a televised address. He announced the hunger strike via social media, claiming it is in response to the “injustices committed against me.”
Castillo, aged 55, has accused Judge Norma Carbajal of prejudging his case and manipulating the legal definition of rebellion. He has previously characterized his trial as “politicized” and a “pantomime,” dismissing the legal representation offered by the judicial system. In his defense, Castillo denies any wrongdoing and argues that his actions were merely a reflection of the people’s will expressed through a political speech.
The Public Ministry’s allegations stem from Castillo’s attempt to dissolve Parliament in December 2022 to evade a vote which could have resulted in his removal due to claims of “permanent moral incapacity” to govern. Following his unsuccessful bid, Congress ousted Castillo, leading to his incarceration while Vice President Dina Boluarte assumed control. The situation escalated into serious unrest, resulting in more than 50 civilian deaths during the subsequent protests in Peru.
In addition to the rebellion case, Castillo faces further investigations by the prosecutor’s office concerning alleged corruption during his presidency, which adds to the legal challenges he currently confronts.
Pedro Castillo’s hunger strike highlights his ongoing legal battles and claims of injustice related to his rebellion trial. His detention and subsequent trial raise critical questions about political processes in Peru, as well as the implications of his past actions on the nation’s governance and stability. Furthermore, the cases against him reveal broader issues of political unrest and corruption allegations within Peru’s political landscape.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
