LIMA, Jan 28 (NNN-ANDINA) — Peru’s Congress approved a motion to declare Bolivian ex-President Evo Morales persona non grata, as it deemed that he makes statements and comments reflecting interference in Peru’s domestic affairs.
The initiative received 74 votes in favor, 40 against, and 4 abstentions. Moreover, it was approved after a lengthy debate.
Congress Foreign Affairs Commission Chairwoman Maria del Carmen Alva said there was no doubt that Morales carries out constant interference in the country’s domestic affairs and that he is not a friend of Peru.
The legislator pointed out that both the National Parliament and the Commission that she chairs have the prerogative to declare persona non grata anyone who seeks to affect national interests.
The Commission’s chair remarked that this is the case of Morales, which is reflected in various public statements, in which he refers to what is happening in Peru and proposes political action.
In this sense, the text of the approved motion states that Morales carries out constant interference in domestic politics, which seeks to disrupt internal order in the country.
Alva pointed out that such interference is mostly focused on the southern area of the country.
The document urges both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior to submit the approved motion to the Bolivian Embassy in the country.
Meanwhile, Peru’s Public Ministry opened 11 prosecutorial investigations into the deaths of citizens that occurred during protests, in order to determine those responsible.
Likewise, the Prosecutor’s Office ordered the launch of 18 investigations of injuries to people in the context of demonstrations, as well as the opening of 105 prosecutorial files so as to investigate those who had allegedly committed crimes of resistance to authority, riots, and against public tranquility, among others.
According to Public Ministry figures resulting from the clashes during protests, 54 deaths were reported (53 civilians and one police agent), as well as 793 injured (435 civilians and 358 National Police agents).
Also, 639 detainees have been registered —53 of whom have been complying with preliminary arrest warrants and eight are under pretrial detention.
The Public Ministry guarantees that investigations are carried out strictly respecting the laws in force in Peru and the defense of human rights, characterized by order, firmness, and promptness.
Peru currently faces a wave of protests called against the Government. Some of these events have triggered riots and clashes between police and protesters. — NNN-ANDINA
