Andina

Peru President: It is necessary to solve Odebrecht case

10:55 | Lima, Dec. 18.

President Vizcarra on Tuesday affirmed it is necessary to get to the bottom of the Odebrecht case "no matter who falls, and no matter what it costs."

"If we want to have a sustainable development perspective towards the future, we have to eradicate corruption. We must be strict when it comes to the punishment for the ones who have committed crimes," the Head of State expressed. 

Likewise, the top official indicated it will be well timed if the information from Brazil is relevant and provides elements of judgment aimed at making strong decisions and putting exemplary sanction on the wrongdoers. 

"This might come as a blow, but it is good, as this will enable the planning of a transparent and honest future, just like Peruvians demand," he stressed after having claimed impunity does not exist in the country anymore.

Lava Jato team 

Furthermore, the statesman reaffirmed it is essential that the team of Prosecutors —in charge of the Lava Jato case— remain in their posts.

"At his point, it (replacing the Prosecutors) wouldn't be a positive message in the fight against corruption. Replacing and harassing the Prosecutors, who are working, is not a positive message," he added. 

As is known, citizens fear Attorney General Pedro Chavarry might dismiss Prosecutors Rafael Vela and Jose Domingo Perez from the case.

In this sense, President Vizcarra urged for reflection and support for the Prosecutors, so they can complete the investigation and provide the information that will enable the punishment for the ones responsible. 

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) VVS/RES/DTK/MVB

Published: 12/18/2018