LIMA – Peruvian state prosecutors said they intend to open a corruption investigation into President Martin Vizcarra when his term ends in July next year.
“We have decided that there are reasons to investigate the president of the republic,” said a statement from the prosecutors’ office on Friday, based on a report from a provincial colleague focusing on public sector corruption.
The head of state enjoys immunity from prosecution, meaning the investigation is suspended until he leaves office on July 28 next year, said the statement.
Vizcarra yesterday asked for the probe to proceed immediately.
“I’m here. I’m not waiting for July 28 next year. I want to clarify now because everything is absolutely transparent and complies with the law.”
The leader is under fire after recordings were leaked in which he is heard telling aides to hide details from investigators of the controversial hiring of popular singer Richard Cisneros – stage name Richard Swing – as a paid cultural adviser.
Vizcarra last month survived an impeachment vote in Congress that was launched over the allegations.
Public support for the president – who has waged an anti-corruption crusade since taking office in 2018 – remained high throughout the battle in Congress, with eight out of 10 Peruvians wanting him to continue until the end of his term.
Peru has been politically unstable in recent years, with its four previous presidents implicated in Latin America’s sprawling Odebrecht corruption scandal. – AFP, October 11, 2020
