The US Ambassador to Peru, Lisa Kenna, criticized President Pedro Castillo’s decision to order the dissolution of Congress and early elections. The leftist leader’s pronouncement triggered an acute political crisis in the country, with the opposition and even the vice president denouncing what they call a coup d’état.
“The United States categorically rejects any extraconstitutional act by President Castillo to prevent Congress from fulfilling its mandate,” the diplomat wrote on Twitter.
“The US strongly urges the President to reverse his intention to close Parliament and allow democratic institutions to function in accordance with the Constitution. We call on the Peruvian population to remain calm during this uncertain time.”
The Armed Forces and the police of Peru also commented on the incident, stating, in a joint statement, that they will not comply with any act of “violation of the Constitution”.
The text recalls that the president has the right to dissolve Congress if the legislature holds two votes of no confidence against the cabinet and adds that any contrary act would constitute a violation of the Charter, in addition to asking the population to remain calm and trust the institutions of the country.
In a statement, Costa Rican diplomacy said it “regretted the decision” by Castillo, asking that legal order be restored immediately, with respect to civil guarantees.
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Pedro Castillo faces a constant crisis since he took over the Presidency, just over a year and a half ago.
The dissolution of Congress is a valid instrument in the Peruvian system, as long as Parliament has rejected at least two votes of confidence in the president.
This Wednesday, congressmen met to analyze the third dismissal process of the populist leftist politician, and the announcement came just hours before the debate — in which Castillo’s impeachment was approved.
The Peruvian press and opposition deputies, who are the majority in Congress, called Castillo’s move a coup d’état.
Some ministers tendered their resignations moments after the president’s speech, including Chancellor César Landa, Alejandro Salas (Labour) and Kurt Burneo (Economy). Army commander General Walter Córdova did the same.
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