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Peru's President: Some Congress members want to postpone elections and be re-elected

Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra addresses reporters from the Research Center at Cayetano Heredia University in Lima. Photo: ANDINA/ Presidency of the Republic

Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra addresses reporters from the Research Center at Cayetano Heredia University in Lima. Photo: ANDINA/ Presidency of the Republic

14:07 | Lima, Sep. 11.

The President of the Republic Martin Vizcarra on Friday warned that some Parliament members attempt to postpone the 2021 general elections and seek to be reelected, contrary to the popular will established by the 2018 referendum results.


In statements to the press, the Head of State recalled that he constitutionally dissolved Congress in September 2019. Thus, the current Parliament —which took office last March to complete its term— should finish duties in July 2021.

"However, there are some Congress members, some groups that want to postpone next year's elections, and there is an approach (…) to say that, as we are in times of pandemic, the elections should be postponed for one or two years," he stated.

The top official stressed that said attempt will not be successful in any way and that the general elections will take place on April 11, 2021, as were officially set.

"Additionally, there is the will to make an interpretation of the referendum (results) so that Congress members can be reelected. Against the will of the population, they want to allow a reelection, which is prohibited, and postpone the elections. I will not allow that," he expressed.

The statesman reiterated that he will not resign, as he has a commitment to the nation during the complex situation it is going through given the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I ask Congress to analyze the situation cautiously and responsibly, as well as to make the decision that they deem appropriate," he concluded.


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Published: 9/11/2020