Peru’s President Impeached Over Corruption, Crime Allegations
Peru has plunged into yet another political crisis as lawmakers voted on Friday to impeach President Dina Boluarte, whose turbulent tenure has been overshadowed by corruption allegations, surging crime, and widespread protests.
The move followed a dramatic overnight session in Congress, where 118 members voted in favour of her removal on grounds of “permanent moral incapacity.”
Boluarte, who came to power in December 2022 after the ouster of former President Pedro Castillo, refused to appear before the legislature for her impeachment hearing despite being summoned.
Congress President, José Jeri, confirmed the outcome and announced that he would temporarily assume leadership of the country pending fresh elections scheduled for April 2026.
The now-ousted president had long faced mounting criticism for her handling of national security and governance.
Her administration battled a surge in gang violence, extortion, and killings that have shaken public confidence. The final straw for many lawmakers, however, was a series of corruption probes, including one over undeclared luxury jewellery and watches, a scandal that has been dubbed “Rolexgate.”
Boluarte’s popularity had plummeted to record lows in recent months as citizens took to the streets to protest against economic hardship and a controversial pension reform law passed in September.
The law mandates that young workers contribute to private pension funds despite high job insecurity and a largely informal labour market.
AFP
Sodiq Yusuf is a trained media practitioner and journalist with considerable years of experience in print, broadcast, and digital journalism. His interests cover a wide range of causes in politics, governance, sports, community development, and good governance.
