Peru’s parliament has approved the impeachment of President Pedro Castillo. Less than two hours later, the embattled leader was arrested by security forces for refusing to relinquish power. Prosecutors in the prefecture of Lima are questioning him.
Castillo himself had previously announced the temporary dissolution of parliament in an attempt to prevent his impeachment. In a televised speech, he had also announced the establishment of an extraordinary government. He also announced a curfew and called for new elections.
But all this immediately met with strong and widely supported criticism. Vice President Dina Boluarte spoke of a coup. The United States urged the leftist leader not to thwart the work of parliament. It is intended that Boluarte will succeed him.
Moral inability
The parliament, which is dominated by the opposition, accuses him of “moral inability” to govern. Because of that qualification in the constitution, two presidents have already been fired since 2018.
The deposition was broadcast live on television. 101 MPs voted in favour, six against and ten abstained.
Corruption
Since taking office a year and a half ago, Castillo had already survived two no-confidence votes. The last time that happened was in March 2022.
The former teacher unexpectedly took power from the traditional political elite of the South American country. However, his popularity collapsed due to allegations of corruption and soaring fuel and food prices.
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