Peru's attorney general initiated two preliminary investigations against President Pedro Castillo for alleged corruption which, according to the law, may only end once their mandate has concluded.
The first investigation is because Castillo presumably met with businessmen who would have sought to build a bridge and, in another case, to sell fuel to the state oil company.
The second investigation is for his alleged intervention in the promotions of Army and Air Force officers.
The Public Ministry said in a statement on Tuesday night that Attorney General Zoraida Ăvalos suspended any investigative proceeding until the end of the presidential term in 2026.
Presidents in Peru cannot be charged during their five-year term, according to the law.
Prime Minister Mirtha VĂĄsquez said that "all investigations must be carried out so that any type of irregularity that has existed can be accredited or dispelled." He added that Castillo has expressed his willingness to lift his banking secrecy and his telephone communications.
At the moment the president has not expressed any opinion. A week ago he was questioned by the attorney general, but as a witness, in the case of military promotions. At the end of that diligence, Castillo denied any indication of corruption and said that he had a "clear conscience."
In five months of management, Castillo already faced a request for a presidential vacancy promoted by the legislative opposition that did not advance due to lack of votes. The president has not given any interviews to the press nor has he explained in detail the accusations against him.
Castillo began his administration on July 28 and according to the law it must end in 2026.
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