What happened today in history?
What happened
today in history?
[ Mar 23 ]
Back

Martin Vizcarra Assumes Presidency in Peru Amidst Scandal

The Rise of Martín Vizcarra

On March 23, 2018, a significant political shift occurred in Peru as Martín Vizcarra was sworn in as the new President following the resignation of Pedro Pablo Kuczynski. This event marked a pivotal moment in Peruvian politics, underscored by the ongoing corruption scandals that plagued Kuczynski’s administration.

Transition of Power Following Kuczynski's Resignation

Pedro Pablo Kuczynski resigned under intense pressure from lawmakers over allegations of corruption linked to the infamous Odebrecht scandal. The crisis reached its peak as it became evident that Kuczynski faced imminent impeachment, prompting him to step down to allow for a peaceful transition of power to his former vice president, Martín Vizcarra. This move was crucial in stabilizing a politically tumultuous landscape.

Martín Vizcarra’s Background and Promise

Martín Vizcarra, born in Moquegua, Peru, in 1963, held several roles in public service, including that of governor of Moquegua before becoming Kuczynski's vice president. His leadership was anticipated to bring transparency and a commitment to anti-corruption reforms, as he promised to address public dissatisfaction and restore trust in the government.

Challenges Ahead for the New Administration

Upon assuming the presidency, Vizcarra faced immediate challenges, including managing a fractured Congress and continuing the fight against political corruption that had deeply affected public sentiment towards the government.

Government Reform Initiatives

Vizcarra quickly began to implement a series of reforms aimed at enhancing transparency and combating corruption. He sought to engage citizens and strengthen democratic institutions, emphasizing the need for integrity within public service. His bold stance on these issues played a vital role in garnering public support amid political unrest.

Continued Political Turbulence

Despite his intentions, Vizcarra's presidency was not without its hurdles. The political landscape remained volatile, and his relationship with Congress often faced scrutiny. However, his commitment to fighting corruption resonated with the populace, fuelling a determined effort to unify the country.

Fun Fact

Martín Vizcarra's Unique Approach

One interesting fact about Martín Vizcarra during his presidency is his preference for communicating directly with the public through social media platforms, cutting through traditional media channels, and engaging directly with citizens.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Martín Vizcarra

For those interested in exploring more about Martín Vizcarra's presidency and the surrounding political context, we recommend the books "The Politics of Inclusion and Exclusion in Latin America" and "Peruvian Politics: The Crisis of the Kuczynski Administration".