Andina

Peru: Prosecutor requests changing house arrest to preventive detention for Kuczynski

10:26 | Lima, Aug. 21.

Peruvian Prosecutor Jose Domingo Perez requested the Judiciary to change the house arrest measure —ordered against ex-President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski (2016-2018)— to preventive detention, La Republica newspaper informed on Wednesday.

The recent request —submitted to Judge Jorge Chavez— indicated Kuczynski might have violated the rules of conduct, as he welcomed visitors at his home.

Likewise, it pointed out the former President received visits from Vice-President Mercedes Araoz, lawmakers Carlos Bruce, and Gilbert Violeta, as well as ex-ministers Alfredo Thorne, Bruno Giuffra, Cayetana Aljovin, Claudia Cooper, Abel Salinas, and Alfonso Grados.

According to Perez, these visits also violated the "prohibition on communication with witnesses of all the investigations carried out by the representative of the Public Ministry," and casts doubts on Kuczynski's "delicate health." 

House arrest

Preliminary detention

On March 10, the Judicial Branch ordered the preliminary detention of Kuczynski due to alleged asset laundering crimes to the detriment of the Peruvian State.

Prosecutor Jose Domingo Perez requested the detention of Kuczynski, as evidence indicates that the ex-President was responsible for favoring Odebrecht so it could be awarded the South Interoceanic Highway Project —Stretches 2 and 3— (South IIRSA) and Olmos Irrigation Project, thus obtaining economic benefits from the company.


As is known, Toledo —who resides in the United States— faces an extradition request by the Peruvian State. The justice system ordered 18-month preventive detention for him —in February 2017— after having allegedly received bribes from Odebrecht during his time in office.

Likewise, Kuczynski is accused of money laundering offenses, acting within the framework of a criminal organization, due to the events that took place when he was Economy-Finance Minister and Prime Minister between 2002 and 2006. 

Furthermore, in 2007, the Westfield Capital company —founded by Kuczynski— allegedly received money transfers from South IIRSA —Stretches 2 and 3— and Trasvase Olmos.

Ex-President 


Back then, a group of legislators from opposition parties filed a presidential impeachment motion —on the grounds of moral incapacity— after he had survived a previous impeachment vote back in December.

This new motion was intended to oust Kuczynski for alleged links with Odebrecht.

(END) FHG/DTK/MVB

Published: 8/21/2019