Peru's President Dina Boluarte Testifies in Corruption Probe Amid Tight Security

On Tuesday, Peruvian President Dina Boluarte testified before prosecutors for over five hours as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged illicit enrichment and improper passive bribery related to her possession of luxury Rolex watches. The probe, which has expanded to include Ayacucho regional governor Wilfredo Oscorima, centers around watches that Oscorima admitted to lending to Boluarte.

During her testimony, Boluarte denied ownership of the watches but acknowledged "mistakenly" accepting them as a loan from Oscorima. Prosecutors later seized three Rolex watches and a bracelet belonging to the Ayacucho governor, who has faced corruption investigations in the past.

The high-stakes questioning took place under extreme security measures, reflecting the gravity of the allegations against Peru's head of state. Boluarte's legal team has requested that the Supreme Court of Preparatory Investigation declare the seizure of the luxury accessories as unfounded, with a virtual decision expected on May 2.

Why this matters: The corruption probe into President Boluarte threatens to further destabilize Peru's political landscape and erode public trust in government institutions. The outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for the future of Boluarte's presidency and the country's efforts to combat corruption at the highest levels of power.

As the investigation progresses, Peruvians await the court's ruling on the seizure of the Rolex watches and bracelet. Boluarte, who previously claimed the items were "loans" and "fine costume jewelry," now faces mounting scrutiny over her alleged involvement in illicit enrichment schemes. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the fate of Peru's embattled president and the country's ongoing battle against corruption.

Key Takeaways

• Peruvian President Boluarte testified over 5 hours on alleged illicit enrichment.
• Prosecutors seized 3 Rolex watches and a bracelet belonging to Ayacucho governor Oscorima.
• Boluarte denied ownership but acknowledged "mistakenly" accepting the watches as a loan.
• Corruption probe threatens to destabilize Peru's politics and erode public trust.
• Court to rule on May 2 on the seizure of the luxury accessories.