Peru’s Political Turmoil in 2020
Martín Vizcarra: The President under Siege
In November 2020, Peru's Congress made headlines when it voted to impeach President Martín Vizcarra over serious allegations of corruption. Vizcarra, who had initially gained public trust for his anti-corruption stance, found himself embroiled in controversy as accusations surfaced regarding his involvement in bribery during his time as a governor. This marked a significant moment in Peru's ongoing struggle against political corruption and instability.
The Corruption Allegations Against Vizcarra
Congress accused Vizcarra of accepting bribes from construction companies while he was the governor of Moquegua from 2011 to 2014. Though he consistently denied these allegations, the evidence presented during Congress sessions, including testimonies from former officials, fueled the push for impeachment. As corruption plagued Peruvian politics, the decision to impeach Vizcarra reflected the deep public dissatisfaction with governance in the country.
The Impeachment Vote: A Divided Congress
Congress’ Decision to Oust Vizcarra
On November 9, 2020, following an extensive debate, Peru's Congress voted overwhelmingly in favor of impeachment, with 105 out of 130 members supporting the motion. This decisive action led to the ousting of Vizcarra, who was accused of moral incapacity. This historic moment underlined the contentious relationship between the executive and legislative branches in Peru, showcasing how fragile political alliances can be.
Aftermath and Reactions from the Public
The impeachment triggered widespread protests across Peru, with many citizens viewing it as a politically motivated move rather than a solution to corruption. Supporters of Vizcarra argued that the impeachment was an illegitimate attack on a president who was striving to eradicate corruption. The public outcry raised questions about the integrity of the legislative body and its role in governance.
Fun Fact
Vizcarra’s Political Journey
Martín Vizcarra started his political career as a civil engineer and entered politics in 2010, eventually serving as a member of Congress before becoming the Vice President of Peru, and later ascending to the presidency in 2018 after the resignation of Pedro Pablo Kuczynski.
Additional Resources
Recommended Reading on Peruvian Politics
To further understand the complexities of Peruvian politics and the factors leading to Vizcarra’s impeachment, consider reading “The Peruvian Experiment Reconsidered” by Kurt Weyland, or “Corrupt Cities: A Collaborative Survey” edited by Edgardo Buscaglia, which highlights corruption in urban environments worldwide.
Continue with Google