Andina

Peru Judiciary calls on U.S. for reciprocity in ex-President Toledo case

Alejandro Toledo

Alejandro Toledo

17:12 | Lima, Mar. 14.

Judicial Branch Chairman Duberli Rodriguez on Wednesday asked United States authorities for reciprocity when assessing the extradition request for former President Alejandro Toledo (2001-2006), and to approve it as soon as possible.

According to Rodriguez, when Peru receives an extradition request for a U.S. citizen —especially on drug trafficking charges— the approval process does not take longer than three months.

"If the [extradition] file is well-prepared, and all the steps we made are followed, the time may be reduced," he told RPP radio and TV news station.

"I think we must ask U.S. authorities for reciprocity […]," he added.

The official also noted Toledo should head to the Judiciary and face the extradition to respond for alleged corruption crimes involving the Odebrecht company.

Similarly, he ruled out any political persecution concerning the Supreme Court's approval of said extradition file.

The resolution has responded to all objections raised by Toledo's defense team, Rodriguez pointed out.

"Judges and prosecutors act independently, [thus] political persecution is an argument that is not valid," he expressed in this sense.

The Judiciary head also explained the extradition request to the United States —where Toledo resides— is based on crimes of influence peddling, collusion, and money laundering.

As is known, Toledo is accused of receiving US$20 million in bribes from Brazilian construction giant Odebrecht to secure the Inter-Oceanic Highway contract, a major infrastructure venture connecting Peru and Brazil.

It must be noted this transaction was allegedly made when he was President of Peru.  

(END) FHG/CCR/JAA/MVB

Published: 3/14/2018