President Dina Boluarte accused over minor and serious injuries in Peru protests
As Peru faces growing scrutiny over protest crackdowns, President Dina Boluarte and former ministers now confront serious legal challenges. With Congress weighing their immunity and international pressure mounting, the outcome could redefine accountability for human rights violations at the highest levels of government.
According to the Peruvian Attorney General's Office, President Dina Boluarte and a number of her former ministers have received a constitutional complaint stating harm done to citizens during protests that took place between December 2022 to early 2023, especially those named Ronald Rojas Ramos and Michel Chipa. The case has been delivered to Congress.
The complaint states that Boluarte and her ex-ministers approved or at a minimum stop excessive use of force committed by the police and army during the protests and caused at least 75 documented harm cases, with minor and serious injuries. The Attorney General's Office described the use of force as excessive and unconstitutional, as it infringed citizens' constitutional rights.
Former Ministers and President Boluarte face legal action over protest deaths and rights violations
The former ministers identified are Pedro Angulo, Alberto Otárola, Jorge Chávez, César Cervantes, Víctor Rojas, and Vicente Romero, who all served in government when the protests occurred. The complaint states the actions or omissions of these officials fostered the violations committed against protesters.
This action is not the only legal action President Boluarte has faced as a result of the public protests. She was previously charged with qualified homicide and other crimes involving the deaths of 40 plus people during the protests. There have been many questions surrounding the government and its ability to manage increasing civil unrest while maintaining a respect for human rights.
Peruvian Congress to decide on immunity in protest case with Major Human rights and political implications
The constitutional complaint is now in the hands of the Peruvian Congress, who will have the power to grant permission to remove the officials' immunity, thereby allowing for formal investigations to be conducted and potential prosecutions, if warranted. The outcome of this case will be watched closely, both nationally and internationally, as it could pave the way for a precedent in holding high-ranking officials accountable for human rights violations.
Official statement from Peru’s Public Ministry announcing the constitutional complaint against President Dina Boluarte and former ministers for injuries during recent protests. Photo: Diffusion
Human rights organizations and international observers have called for thorough and impartial investigations into the events surrounding the protests. They stress the importance of justice for the victims and accountability for those responsible. The developments in this case will have significant political implications for Peru's political landscape and in relation to its commitment to democratic principles.
