Andina

Peru: President laments death of Defense Minister

13:33 | Lima, Jun. 24.

Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra on Monday lamented the passing away of Defense Minister Jose Huerta, adding he died serving the homeland.


"I deeply lament the passing away of Defense Minister Jose Huerta, who left us while serving his homeland. This is painful news that deeply saddens us. My heartfelt condolences to his family," the Head of State expressed via Twitter. 

As is known, Minister of Defense Huerta died at 71 on Monday morning during a visit to the jungle. He was scheduled to carry out some activities linked to his sector.

Huerta was in El Cenepa district (Amazonas Region), where he had arrived to visit military facilities.

According to the first reports, the cabinet member fainted and was immediately taken by helicopter to a health center in Santa Maria de Nieva district.

He died at approximately 10:00 AM (local time).

On hearing the news, members of the Ministerial Cabinet expressed their condolences, including Ministers Vicente Zeballos (Justice-Human Rights), Rocio Barrios (Production), Flor Pablo (Education), and Maria Jara (Transport-Communications). 

Huerta was sworn in on April 2, 2018, by President Martin Vizcarra.

(END) JCC/DTK/MVB

Published: 6/24/2019