Peru’s president, Dina Boluarte, faces fresh turmoil as her brother, Nicanor Boluarte, finds himself in legal trouble, accused of being part of a corruption web.
Authorities allege that Nicanor, empowered by his sister, misused funds by doling them out to regional leaders and mayors, allegedly in return for kickbacks. He contests the accusations.
This development comes shortly after a scandal involving Rolex watches rocked the president’s private residence, raising questions about her financial disclosures.
Nicanor Boluarte, aged 64, is at the center of allegations involving bribery and influence peddling. He’s accused of leveraging his connections to appoint officials across the country in exchange for favors and financial gains.
According to prosecutors, this arrangement was tied to efforts to form a political party, with Nicanor Boluarte slated to lead it, in a bid to accumulate signatures.
Meanwhile, Mateo Castañeda, President Boluarte’s legal counsel, faces accusations of tampering with the investigation linked to Nicanor Boluarte.
Nicanor Boluarte
The arrests of both Nicanor Boluarte and Mateo Castañeda, alongside police raids on their residences, were broadcast on local television channels.
In response to the developments, Peru’s judiciary announced a 10-day “preliminary detention” order for Nicanor Boluarte and others involved.
Despite the turmoil, President Boluarte reiterated her faith in Peru’s justice system during a recent public appearance, emphasizing her commitment to upholding democratic principles and respecting the constitution.
This incident adds to the series of challenges that have marred Ms. Boluarte’s presidency. Since assuming office, she has faced scrutiny over various issues, including allegations of human rights abuses stemming from a crackdown on protests and the preceding political upheaval involving former President Pedro Castillo.
