Peru begins trial against former president Pedro Castillo.
If convicted, the former president could face up to 34 years in prison for crimes such as rebellion, abuse of authority, and disturbing the peace.
247 - Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo went on trial Tuesday (4) for allegedly attempting to dissolve Congress in 2022. If convicted, he could face up to 34 years in prison for crimes such as rebellion, abuse of authority and disturbing the peace. The prosecution is also asking for a three-year and six-month ban from holding public office.
The trial was held by the Special Criminal Chamber of the Supreme Court in a room adjacent to the Barbadillo prison, where Castillo has been detained since December 2022. During the trial, the former president called the process a "farce."
In a letter published on the social network X, he also stated that he does not accept being judged by the Court.
"As constitutional president, I do not accept and will not submit to being judged by this Special Criminal Court," said Castillo, who appeared in court without a lawyer.
The trial could last up to six months. Other former members of the old government also face justice, including former prime ministers Aníbal Torres and Betsy Chávez, who could be sentenced to 15 to 25 years in prison.
