Peru: Castillo is ousted

PERU - In Brief 07 Dec 2022 by Alfredo Thorne

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A few minutes ago Congress voted former president Castillo impeachment and was approved by 101 votes, more than the two-thirds needed (87 votes). This followed Mr. Castillo decision a few minutes before mid-day to shut down Congress, restrict rights, impose curfew from 10pm to 4am, and called a Constitutional Assembly in six months.  Following his decision and in a very orderly fashion, the heads of the Constitutional entities made press conferences rejecting Mr. Castillo decision and calling all the Constitutional powers to disobey their orders.  They declared him a violator of the Constitutional order. One of the last press releases came from the Armed and Police Forces indicating that they only obey the Constitution and rule out any support for Mr. Castillo. A few minutes ago the press indicated that Mr. Castillo has been put in jail and most likely will face all the corruption and constitutional violations accusations. The Constitution rules that Vice-President, Ms. Dina Boluarte should take over. Last night there were rumors that she was putting together her first Cabinet. It is expected that Congress will take her oath in the next hours. Less clear is if she will decide to stay and complete Mr. Castillo's term until July 2026 or send a law to Congress calling early elections of President and Congress. Recent polls indicate that the majority will prefer an early election and a coalition government with most of the political forces represented. Will keep you posted!