Latin America
Former Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra Sentenced to 14 Years for Corruption
A Peruvian court has sentenced former President Martin Vizcarra to 14 years in prison for accepting hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes while serving as governor of Moquegua. The ruling adds another former head of state to the growing list of Peruvian presidents convicted or detained on corruption charges.
Peru Ends Diplomatic Relations With Mexico
Peru severed diplomatic ties with Mexico after its government granted asylum to former Prime Minister Betssy Chávez, who is facing rebellion charges tied to Pedro Castillo’s 2022 attempt to dissolve Congress. The decision marks the most serious escalation in a relationship already strained by years of political friction
Peru Has a New President
Peru has now seen eight different faces for their presidency in the past ten years. On Oct.10, Congress voted to remove President Dina Boluarte amid allegations of illicit enrichment and public outrage over rising violent crime that left her approval ratings in the single digits.
Peruvian Foreign Minister Quits Amid Controversy Over Failed Biden Meeting
On Nov. 6, 2023, Ana Cecilia Gervasi, Peru's Foreign Minister, resigned from her position after controversy about her lack of diligence. Apparently, Gervasi failed to secure a formal meeting with President Joe Biden during Peruvian President Dina Boularte's recent visit to the United States.
Peru’s President Faces Criminal Investigation, Linked with Pedro Castillo
Peru’s attorney general’s office announced criminal investigations into President Dina Boluarte on March 28, 2023.
15 Dead, Over 500 People Affected After Earthquake Rocks Ecuador and Peru
On Saturday, Mar. 18, 2023, Northern Peru and 14 provinces in Ecuador were affected by extreme weather and a 6.8 magnitude earthquake.
Amnesty International report urges government to cease excessive use of force
Amnesty International reports that the Army and National Policy of Peru have unlawfully utilized lethal force indiscriminately against the population.
Peru’s President Castillo Fails a Coup Attempt
Peru narrowly avoided a constitutional crisis on Wednesday after former President Pedro Castillo attempted to take unilateral control of the government.
Attorney General Files Constitutional Complaint Against Peruvian President, Alleges Corruption Within Government
A little more than a year after taking office, Pedro Castillo, Peru’s president, faces a constitutional complaint filed by the country’s attorney general against him on Tuesday. “We have found very serious indications of a criminal organization that has taken roots in the government,” said Patricia Benavides, Peru’s top prosecutor, in a statement to congress.