LIMA, Nov 26 (NNN-AGENCIES) — Peru’s President Pedro Castillo appointed the culture minister as the country’s new prime minister after her predecessor resigned over a row with parliament.
Betssy Chavez, a 33-year-old lawyer who also did a stint as labor minister, was sworn in on Friday as the fifth prime minister since the beleaguered Castillo took office 16 months ago.
The pair will reshuffle the cabinet after former premier Anibal Torres quit on Thursday amid an ongoing clash between the leftist Castillo and the conservative-controlled parliament.
Castillo, in power since July 2021, has already faced two impeachment attempts in parliament and is under investigation in six corruption cases, including accusations against his family and political entourage.
Earlier this month, thousands marched in the capital to demand the removal of the former rural school teacher who unexpectedly took power from Peru’s traditional political elite.
Castillo has denounced the charges as politically motivated, and enjoys immunity until the end of his term in July 2026.
Chavez, an MP with the leftist bloc which backs Castillo, has 30 days to request a vote of confidence from parliament to be able to assume office. — NNN-AGENCIES
