Peruvian Congressman Proposes Commission to Examine Former President's Death

Peruvian Congressman Jorge Montoya has proposed creating a commission to examine the death of former President Alan García. García died in 2019 after shooting himself as police arrived at his home to arrest him as part of a corruption investigation.

Montoya, a member of the conservative Popular Force party, said the commission would look into the circumstances surrounding García's death and whether there were any irregularities. He argued that the public deserves to know the truth about what happened.

"The commission would look into the circumstances surrounding García's death and whether there were any irregularities," Montoya stated. "The public deserves to know the truth about what happened."

The proposal comes amid ongoing political tensions in Peru related to corruption scandals and the impeachment of former President Pedro Castillo. García's death occurred during a tumultuous period in Peruvian politics, as the country confronted the fallout from the wide-ranging Odebrecht corruption scandal that implicated several high-level officials.

García, who served two non-consecutive terms as president, was accused of taking bribes from the Brazilian construction company Odebrecht during his second term in office from 2006 to 2011. He denied the allegations and sought asylum in the Uruguayan embassy before his death.

The proposed commission would have the authority to summon witnesses, request documents, and investigate any potential irregularities or misconduct related to García's death and the events leading up to it. It remains to be seen whether the proposal will gain traction in Peru's Congress.

Why this matters: The proposed investigation into García's death highlights the ongoing challenges Peru faces in addressing corruption and political instability. The case underscores the need for transparency and accountability in government, as the country seeks to rebuild trust in its institutions.

Montoya's proposal comes as Peru continues to grapple with the consequences of the Odebrecht scandal and other corruption cases that have shaken public confidence in the political system. The creation of an investigative commission could shed light on the circumstances surrounding García's death and provide answers to lingering questions about the case. However, critics may argue that the proposal is politically motivated and could further deepen divisions in an already polarized political landscape.

Key Takeaways

• Peruvian congressman proposes commission to investigate ex-president García's death.
• García died in 2019 after shooting himself as police arrived to arrest him.
• García was accused of taking Odebrecht bribes during his 2006-2011 presidency.
• Proposed commission could shed light on circumstances and potential irregularities.
• Move highlights Peru's ongoing challenges with corruption and political instability.