Congress' opposition party Frente Amplio (Wide Front) on Friday filed a motion to impeach President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski on the grounds of moral incapacity, following corruption allegations involving scandal-plagued Odebrecht.
Seconded by legislators from various opposition parties, the initiative comes in response to the President's Thursday night address, in which he
denied wrongdoing and ties to the corruption-tainted firm.
The motion accuses President Kuczynski of denying having received payments from Odebrecht in a letter addressed to a Congress investigative commission and then admitting to providing advisory services.
In addition, it refers to a series of alleged advisory fees linked to Mr. Kuczynski disclosed by the Brazilian builder in a report.
The opposition argues said information "reveals the lack of truth in the statements of the President, which constitutes moral incapacity in accordance with the constitutional framework."
Opposition lawmakers also claim President Kuczynski held public office —as Economy Minister and as Cabinet Chief— at the time when his company Westfield Capital allegedly provided services to Odebrecht.
As per Peru's parliamentary proceedings, the motion will be presented and debated at a Congress plenary session. If passed, President Kuczynski will be summoned to defend himself before Congress votes to decide if he is removed from office.
(END) FHG/CCR/MVB
Published: 12/15/2017