Peruvian President Dina Boluarte denounced the investigation into her possible illicit enrichment as unconstitutional and discriminatory after police forcibly entered her home with a battering ram in search of luxury watches. The raid marked the first time in Peru’s history that police had entered the home of a sitting president, sparking controversy and concerns about political turmoil. Boluarte is being investigated for acquiring a collection of luxury watches since becoming vice president and then president, despite not declaring them in her asset declaration document. The investigation began after she was seen wearing a Rolex watch worth up to $14,000 on a TV program.
Boluarte, a 61-year-old lawyer, has denied accusations of corruption and questioned the motives behind the focus on her wardrobe choices. She emphasized her honesty and questioned the media’s interest in what a president wears. Boluarte’s lawyer confirmed that police had also searched the presidential palace and found approximately 10 watches, but did not specify how many were Rolexes. The president’s government defended the search at the palace as a normal part of the investigation process. Boluarte is set to testify at the prosecutor’s office on April 5 and faces pressure to produce the three Rolex watches for further investigation.
The political crisis surrounding Boluarte’s ownership of the luxury watches has raised concerns about potential economic and political implications for Peru. With a history of frequent changes in presidency, the country is facing challenges in building stability and trust in its leadership. Critics have pointed out the authoritarian tendencies of Boluarte’s government as it faces demands for early elections and legislative changes that could impact the judiciary’s independence. The attorney general has emphasized Boluarte’s obligation to cooperate with the investigation and produce the watches for examination.
Despite the ongoing turmoil and investigations, there has not been a strong social movement capable of removing Boluarte from office. Analysts suggest that the lack of a unified protest movement indicates a level of distrust in the potential for positive change through street demonstrations. While Boluarte’s government may be reaching a turning point, it remains uncertain when or if she will step down from the presidency. The situation in Peru reflects a delicate balance of political, legal, and social challenges that continue to shape the country’s future. The upcoming testimony and further developments in the investigation may provide more clarity on Boluarte’s political future.
