Andina

Peru PM: It would be a mistake to replace Lava Jato case prosecutors

10:35 | Lima, Dec. 19.

Prime Minister Cesar Villanueva has affirmed it would be a mistake to replace the prosecutors in charge of the Lava Jato case.

According to the high-ranking official, the special team —led by Prosecutor Rafael Vela— must remain in the post. 

Likewise, Villanueva indicated he hopes the possibility of replacing the prosecutors is just a rumor. 

In remarks to TV Peru, the cabinet chief pointed out that if this situation were to happen, it would affect the dynamic of the Odebrecht investigation.

Within this framework, he stressed it is necessary to take actions intended to strengthen the population's trust. 
 
"What we need right now is trust. (Attorney General Pedro) Chavarry must think this over properly. I am confident he will do so (...)," Prime Minister Villanueva expressed. 

From his point of view, it would be terrible to give in to political pressures, adding it is important to maintain the institutions' independence

Odebrecht

As is known, the Brazilian construction giant admitted to having paid millions in bribes to government officials in Peru, in order to secure public-works contracts.

As a result, Odebrecht benefited from over US$143 million between 2005 and 2014 in Peru, according to the U.S. Justice Department. 

In addition, four ex-Presidents have been linked to the Brazilian company such as: Alejandro Toledo (2001-2006), Alan Garcia (2006-2011), Ollanta Humala (2011-2016), and Pedro Pablo Kuczynski (2016-2018)

Former presidential candidate Keiko Fujimori —currently under preventive detention— also allegedly received money from Odebrecht for her 2011 campaign.

(END) CVC/DTK/MVB

Published: 12/19/2018