Lima, Peru (May 28, 2024) – Peru’s attorney general’s office has filed a constitutional complaint against President Dina Boluarte, alleging her involvement in a corruption case centered on the use of luxury watches. This scandal, which has gripped the nation, could potentially trigger removal proceedings against the president.
The formal accusation alleges that Ms. Boluarte accepted a bribe, leading to a dramatic drop in her popularity, as reflected in recent polls. Should Congress decide to act on the complaint, it could pave the way for her ouster.
Peruvian politics has been notably tumultuous in recent years, with several of Ms. Boluarte’s predecessors being ousted through legislative action. Lawmakers have often spearheaded these removal efforts, contributing to the country’s political instability.
Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzen criticized the complaint as “improper, unconstitutional, and illegal” during an interview with local broadcaster Canal N on Monday. He emphasized that the president would not be swayed by the “political noise” surrounding the issue.
Ms. Boluarte, who previously served as vice president, has faced scrutiny over her possession of several Rolex watches and other luxury items, which appear incongruent with her modest public salary. She has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that the items were loaned to her by a local governor.
This marks the second constitutional complaint filed against Ms. Boluarte during her administration, which has lasted less than two years. The first complaint, lodged last November, pertained to her management of deadly social unrest following the ouster of her predecessor.
The political turmoil traces back to late 2022, when then-President Pedro Castillo attempted to dissolve Congress illegally before a vote to remove him from office. His subsequent ouster and arrest sparked weeks of violent protests, resulting in at least 40 fatalities.
As Peru navigates this latest political crisis, the potential implications for President Boluarte and the nation’s governance remain uncertain.
