Pedro Castillo, the former president of Peru, has initiated a hunger strike to protest his trial for alleged rebellion, for which prosecutors seek a 34-year sentence. He claims political bias and asserts his innocence, while also facing corruption investigations following his ousting.
Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has initiated a hunger strike to protest an oral trial for alleged rebellion. The prosecution is seeking a 34-year prison sentence for Castillo, who has been detained since December 7, 2022, after attempting to dissolve Congress to prevent his removal over accusations of moral incapacity.
In a statement on social media, Castillo, age 55, declared his hunger strike is against the “injustices” he claims have been inflicted upon him. He criticizes Judge Norma Carbajal for allegedly prejudging his case and claims that the nature of the rebellion charge against him is politically motivated.
During the trial, Castillo has consistently denied the charges, asserting, “The only thing I did was convey the people’s desire through a political speech.” The Public Ministry accuses him of trying to dissolve Parliament to evade a vote about his potential removal, an effort that ultimately failed as Congress ousted him, leading to his imprisonment.
Dina Boluarte, Castillo’s vice president, subsequently assumed power, while nationwide protests erupted, resulting in over 50 civilian fatalities. Furthermore, Castillo is under investigation for alleged corruption during his presidency, adding to the myriad challenges he faces politically and legally.
In summary, former President Pedro Castillo has commenced a hunger strike in opposition to charges of rebellion against him. He asserts that the trial is politically charged and asserts his innocence, claiming that his actions were a reflection of public sentiment. Castillo’s situation is compounded by allegations of corruption during his governmental term, highlighting the profound political unrest in Peru.
Original Source: www.newsday.com
