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Peru: Judicial Branch orders 36-month house arrest of ex-President Kuczynski

20:07 | Lima, Apr. 27.

Peru's First National Criminal Appeals Chamber for Corruption Offenses Committed by Public Officials on Saturday afternoon revoked a previous preventive detention order for ex-President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski while being investigated over alleged Odebrecht-related asset laundering charges to the detriment of the Peruvian State. Instead, it ordered his house arrest for a period of 36 months.

The court also imposed on him rules of conduct, including the payment of an economic bond worth S/100,000 (about US$30,303).

Last Friday, the Prosecutor's Office decided to opt for house arrest as requested by the defendant's defense due to Kuczynski's current health status and advanced age.

The 80-year-old is currently hospitalized at a Lima-based clinic. He underwent heart surgery earlier today.

Preliminary detention

On March 10, the Judicial Branch ordered the preliminary detention of Kuczynski over 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.

According to the Prosecutor's Office, during his tenure as Minister part of former President Alejandro Toledo's administration (2001-2006), he had approved regulations to favor the Brazilian corporation.

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

Pedro Pablo Kuczynski served as President of Peru between July 2016 and March 2018. He offered his resignation on March 21 following the release of secret recordings that entangled him in a scandal on the eve of an impeachment vote.

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) JCC/MVB

Published: 4/27/2019

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