Justice and Human Rights Minister Anibal Torres on Friday affirmed that the Government of Peru is awaiting the decision of the Government of the United States regarding the extradition of former Peruvian President Alejandro Toledo (2001-2006) to be prosecuted for corruption.
"The judicial proceedings have been completed. We are just awaiting the U.S. Government's decision to extradite Alejandro Toledo to Peru," he told reporters.
According to investigations by the Prosecutor's Office, Toledo has allegedly taken up to US$35 million in payments from construction firm Odebrecht in exchange for favoring the Brazilian company in its business in Peru, while he was still President of the Republic.
The government official affirmed that this situation is similar to the case of
ex-Supreme Judge Cesar Hinostroza, who remains in Spain and whose extradition has been requested by Peru for his alleged participation in the criminal organization known as the Port's White Collars.
On the other hand, the minister noted that he respects the medical needs of former President Alberto Fujimori, who remains hospitalized at a local clinic in Lima.
"We hope that he will get better as soon as possible and, once this occurs, his situation will be reassessed to be sent to a common jail," Torres stated.
Finally, regarding the Ministerial Cabinet, the high-ranking official explained that Congress has constitutional power to question and even censure ministers.
In this context, he said, the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister will make appropriate changes, if necessary.
(END) SRE/CVC/RMB
Published: 11/5/2021